Yuki Tsunoda has insisted that speculation surrounding his Formula 1 prospects did not have a negative impact on his performances at Red Bull in 2025.
The Japanese driver was handed an early promotion to Red Bull’s senior team in 2025.
Liam Lawson’s struggles coincided with Tsunoda’s strong form in Racing Bulls, prompting a swap just two races into the F1 season.
However, Tsunoda was ultimately unable to make a lasting impression during his time alongside Max Verstappen.
The 25-year-old was left with one of the most challenging seats on the F1 grid. The Red Bull car once again proved difficult for the second driver to extract consistent performances.
Despite his poor performances throughout the season, namely in qualifying, Tsunoda maintains that 2025 was a crucial learning year for him.
“I think this was the year I grew the most. As a person and as a driver,” Tsunoda told DAZN Japan.
Mounting pressure as Tsunoda failed to perform
From the outset, Tsunoda’s biggest issue was one-lap pace, as repeated Q1 and Q2 eliminations instantly compromised his race weekends.
Ultimately, opportunities to score points became limited, and building momentum proved increasingly difficult as the campaign progressed.
Meanwhile, scrutiny surrounding Tsunoda increased each weekend, with each disappointing performance fuelled further speculation about his future.
Nevertheless, Tsunoda, who will spend 2026 on the sidelines as a Red Bull reserve, has stressed that the growing noise never disrupted his focus.
“Mentally, I made great strides. It was an intense year,” Tsunoda explained.
“In terms of emotional control, I was able to reset myself, no matter what happened.
“I was able to stay focused on my performance and deliver,” Tsunoda said.
“I didn’t let myself be influenced by mental or external pressure, thanks in part to the support of my manager and coach.”
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