Yuki Tsunoda Faces Intense Pressure as Max Verstappen’s Teammate at Red Bull

Yuki Tsunoda joined Red Bull as Liam Lawson’s replacement starting at the Japanese Grand Prix on April 6, 2025, after Lawson underperformed in the season’s first two races. Previously with Racing Bulls, Tsunoda now faces the daunting task of driving the RB21, a car tailored to Verstappen’s driving style. Since 2019, Verstappen has dominated Red Bull, securing 60 of the team’s 65 wins, while teammates like Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Sergio Pérez struggled to keep pace.

Tsunoda’s best result is a P9 in seven races, overshadowed by Verstappen, who has contributed 137 of Red Bull’s 144 points in the constructors’ standings as of June 2025. Incidents like a crash in Imola and a Q1 elimination in Barcelona (P20) have intensified scrutiny on the Japanese driver.

Tsunoda acknowledged the pressure of being Verstappen’s teammate. “I’m not enjoying this pressure, but I know what I have to do. If I don’t improve, I know what will happen,” he said, alluding to the risk of losing his Red Bull seat. He highlighted difficulties adapting to the RB21, citing its “fundamental limitations” and lack of confidence, particularly after a crash in Saudi Arabia.

Verstappen, meanwhile, has been critical of the car and offered minimal direct support to Tsunoda. He stated, “If the car is good, we will win,” emphasizing car development over teammate performance. Verstappen’s lukewarm reaction to Tsunoda’s promotion was evident when he liked an Instagram post criticizing Red Bull’s driver management.

Tsunoda’s struggles exacerbate Red Bull’s position in the constructors’ championship, where they rank fourth with 144 points, trailing McLaren’s 362. The performance gap between Verstappen and his teammate, combined with the loss of key designer Adrian Newey, has weakened the team’s competitiveness. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko called for internal discussions regarding Tsunoda’s performance, while speculation about Isack Hadjar as a potential 2026 replacement is growing.

The Spanish Grand Prix on June 22-24, 2025, will be a critical test for Tsunoda. Circuit de Catalunya demands a balanced car, and past failures like the Q1 exit in Barcelona underscore the challenge. With McLaren dominating through Norris and Piastri, and Ferrari and Mercedes maintaining consistency, Tsunoda must quickly adapt to secure his position.

Posts on X reflect fans’ concerns about Tsunoda’s future, with some praising his potential after nearly matching Verstappen’s times in Saudi Arabia, while others doubt his ability to handle pressure. Marko noted Tsunoda’s progress but highlighted errors under pressure. Meanwhile, prospects like Arvid Lindblad are being discussed as future Red Bull options.

For comprehensive coverage of the Spanish Grand Prix and exclusive Formula 1 analysis, visit SPORTRIK. Stay informed on Tsunoda’s journey and Red Bull’s 2025 season.