Alex Albon has backed Yuki Tsunoda to return to Formula 1 as the Japanese driver prepares for his final start for Red Bull in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Tsunoda discovered in the build-up to the Abu Dhabi weekend that he won’t be on the grid next season. Instead, he will take on a test and reserve role.
He becomes the fourth driver in five years to lose the second seat at Red Bull, following an underwhelming campaign as Max Verstappen’s team-mate.
His struggles mirror those of his predecessors, including Albon, who revitalised his career at Williams following an entire year on the sidelines in 2021.
Albon reacted to the news with sympathy for Tsunoda amid Red Bull’s decision, singing the praises of his former rival ahead of F1’s finale this weekend.
“Honestly, I’m away from social media, so I only found out this morning,” Albon told media including Motorsport Week.
“It’s hard for Yuki. I think Yuki’s an extremely talented driver.”
A question of deja vu for Albon?
Albon repeated that Tsunoda merits a place on the grid and believes that he can learn a lot on the sidelines, an experience the Anglo-Thai driver went through in 2021.
“Personally, I think he deserves a place in Formula 1,” he said. “He’s a reserve driver. As of now?
“I hope he can find a way to make an impact with the team. He’s in a very similar place to where I was in 2021. There’s still opportunity.”
Albon highlighted that question marks over how Arvid Lindblad will handle the step up to F1 could provide Tsunoda with a chance to return with Racing Bulls in 2026.
“How does Arvid perform and how does Liam perform in that area? Is there an opportunity for him to come back?” he probed.
“I think that’s why they have put him where they’ve put him.
“I guess I’m biased. I’m very biased towards the fellow Asians in the paddock. He’s got the talent, and I hope to see him back in Formula 1.”
READ MORE – Yuki Tsunoda reveals that Red Bull deal blocked potential F1 move elsewhere in the past
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