Yuki Tsunoda’s Impressive Turnaround at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Yuki Tsunoda recently demonstrated an impressive performance during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which occurred shortly after the Monza race. This marked a significant improvement in his results amidst ongoing speculation about his future in Formula 1. The 25-year-old driver not only qualified but also finished in sixth place in Baku, which stands out as his best outcome since joining Red Bull Racing earlier in the 2025 season from their sister team, Racing Bulls.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the challenges Tsunoda has faced throughout the season. Currently sitting 17th in the championship standings, he has only managed to secure points in five races, often struggling with the unpredictable nature of the RB21 car—much like his predecessor, Liam Lawson.

In stark contrast, his teammate, Max Verstappen, sits in third place in the championship after 17 rounds of the season, boasting four Grand Prix victories, including consecutive wins in Monza and Baku. The disparity in performance between the two drivers has not gone unnoticed, and Tsunoda’s recent upswing appears to be linked to enhancements made to the RB21 and changes in the team’s technical strategies under the new leadership of Laurent Mekies.

The Impact of Team Changes on Tsunoda’s Performance

The recent update to the RB21, particularly the new floor introduced in Monza, has undoubtedly contributed to Tsunoda’s improved performance. Furthermore, team principal Laurent Mekies has shifted the focus towards incorporating driver feedback into the car’s setup. This approach was evident in Verstappen’s successful adjustments in Italy, and Tsunoda has also made significant strides following his simulator sessions.

“I definitely unlocked something there,” Tsunoda shared, indicating that he has begun to adopt a fresh strategy in his approach to racing. While he acknowledged that he may not yet be at Verstappen’s level, he is making steady progress, particularly in comparison to his previous performances.

Tsunoda highlighted that his long-run pace has seen notable improvement, an area where he has historically excelled during qualifying sessions. Since joining Red Bull, he has made six appearances in Q3, showcasing his capability to perform well over a single lap. His ability to maintain competitive pace during the race is where he has recently shone, drawing attention from Mekies.

Recognition from Team Management

Mekies expressed particular admiration for Tsunoda’s ability to fend off competition from Lando Norris, who drives for the championship-leading McLaren team, during the latter stages of the Baku race. “I think it’s his best race with us this year,” Mekies remarked, emphasizing Tsunoda’s strong qualifying performance and his race pace. He noted that Tsunoda was often within two to four tenths of Verstappen’s pace, a significant achievement considering the latter’s dominance during the race.

Mekies had anticipated that Tsunoda would need to defend vigorously against both McLaren and Ferrari drivers to assist Verstappen in his pursuit of victory. However, Tsunoda’s performance allowed him to secure his position without excessive defending, highlighting not just his result but also the quality of his race pace.

The success Tsunoda experienced in Baku could play a crucial role in his prospects of remaining with Red Bull for the following season. His performance demonstrated his potential when circumstances are favorable and he is not entangled in midfield battles. Mekies had previously indicated the necessity for “clean samples” to evaluate Tsunoda’s capabilities for the upcoming 2026 season, particularly in light of a damaging race in Monza that left Tsunoda without points.

Consistent Hard Work Behind the Scenes

Mekies has praised Tsunoda’s dedication and work ethic, noting that he has consistently put in the effort to improve his performance. After a challenging race in Hungary, where he finished 17th before the summer break, Tsunoda opted to return to the simulator rather than take a vacation. “No, no, I’ll go back to the simulator with the team and work the next day,” he told Mekies, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing his driving skills.

This dedication has paid off, as reflected in his performance in Azerbaijan. Mekies expressed satisfaction with Tsunoda’s progress, stating, “He’s working very hard; he has never backed off working hard.” The team has recognized the improvement in Tsunoda’s confidence and performance, which could bode well for his future within the team.

The Future of Tsunoda and Red Bull Racing

Red Bull is planning to announce Verstappen’s teammate for the 2026 season at the end of October, with rookie Isack Hadjar from Racing Bulls currently favored for the role after his impressive podium finish in Zandvoort. However, Tsunoda’s recent performance raises questions about his potential to retain his seat.

Mekies noted, “It’s good news to see Yuki keeping up,” indicating that Tsunoda’s resurgence could lead to a strong finish to the 2025 season, reminiscent of his earlier form prior to joining Red Bull. The team shows a relaxed attitude regarding the decision-making process, recognizing that speed and capability do not fade away overnight. Confidence plays a crucial role in a driver’s performance, and Tsunoda’s newfound assurance following the Baku race is evident.

As the season progresses, Red Bull has indicated that they will not rush their decision regarding Tsunoda’s future. “We have more time,” Mekies stated, reinforcing their commitment to evaluating Tsunoda’s performance over the remaining races. This allows for a thorough assessment of his capabilities and potential fit within the team for the upcoming seasons.

In conclusion, Tsunoda’s recent performances in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix highlight his ability to adapt and overcome challenges, showcasing the results of his hard work and dedication. The support from his team and the recent technical improvements have contributed to this positive trajectory. As the 2025 season continues, all eyes will be on Tsunoda to see if he can maintain this upward trend and secure his place within Red Bull Racing for the future.