In the ruthless world of Formula 1, some drivers stand out with their flamboyant talent, while others, like Yuki Tsunoda, often play supporting roles. Despite his undeniable willingness to help his compatriot Max Verstappen, the Japanese driver struggles to make his voice heard on the track, sometimes leaving the impression of a backup act in a theatre play where he should be the star.
A mixed start to the season
The 2025 season has been a real uphill battle for Yuki Tsunoda. In many respects, it’s as if he has chosen to take a step back, like a ballet dancer who cannot synchronize his movements with those of his partners. Aside from his notable performance at the Azerbaijan GP, where he outpaced the only surviving McLaren of Lando Norris, the Japanese driver has failed to score points, whether in sprint races or during Sunday races.
It must be said that this situation raises a thorny question: to what extent is a driver capable of sacrificing his own performance to help his teammate? Tsunoda has shown that he is willing to play the game, but that is not enough. On the grid, he often remains invisible, like a ghost in a dark corridor, allowing Verstappen to shine without truly benefiting from his help.
Ephemeral moments of glory
Reflecting on the significant moments of his career, one realizes that Tsunoda has sometimes managed to stand out. His daring overtaking of a Ferrari during the French GP was praised by experts as a demonstration of his potential. Unfortunately, these flashes of brilliance are often drowned in a sea of invisibility. He seems like a conductor who gets lost in the notes, unable to set the tempo for his team.
Another major issue remains: communication with Verstappen. The dynamic between a number one driver and his teammate must be fluid, almost telepathic. However, Tsunoda sometimes seems disconnected from Verstappen’s intentions. During qualifying, for example, he is frequently absent from strategic discussions, leaving his teammate to manage the situation without significant support. It’s reminiscent of an action movie where the hero must face the enemy alone because his partner has decided to grab a coffee.
The consequences for the team
For Red Bull Racing, the situation is becoming delicate. If Verstappen continues to crush the competition, it may seem sufficient. However, a teammate who fails to score points in races could become a liability. Imagine a football team where one of the strikers scores all the goals while the other remains on the bench; it eventually creates chaos!
However, it would be unfair to blame Tsunoda solely. The pressure on him is immense. He must juggle the expectations of sponsors, team strategy, and his own ambitions. We all remember the promising beginnings of a young driver in a sport as ruthless as Formula 1: every mistake is scrutinized under a microscope.
An uncertain future
As the next races approach, one burning question is on everyone’s lips: Can Yuki Tsunoda turn the tide? To do so, he must capitalize on his rare successes and prove that he deserves his place within this prestigious team. Ultimately, he must stop being the silent shadow behind Verstappen and become a solid pillar on which the team can rely.
Fans hope to see him regain the confidence that made him a young hope of Japanese motorsport. A sprint victory or a standout performance during a race could very well change the game. It’s as if we are waiting for the first ray of sunshine after a long stormy night; everyone hopes he will finally unleash his hidden potential.
Conclusion: the time for choices
As we enter the second half of the 2025 season, Tsunoda faces a crucial choice: continue down this path where he seems to play second fiddle or take the reins of his career to fight alongside Verstappen. The road is fraught with obstacles and time is running out. The upcoming races could very well determine not only his future at Red Bull Racing but also his career in Formula 1.
