Yuki Tsunoda could “finally be ready” for a Red Bull chance in 2025, according to AlphaTauri chief Franz Tost.
The young Japanese came into his third season in Formula 1 with pressure building to show progress after struggling in an underperforming car last year.
So far, Tsunoda has responded, finishing 11th twice and scoring his first point in Australia despite AlphaTauri having one of the slowest cars on the grid in the early part of 2023.
“Yuki drove some extremely strong races so far,” Tost said via MotorsportWeek. “I am very happy with him. It’s not his fault that we aren’t competitive yet.”
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Tsunoda is known for his explosive temper but has credited his recent development to a combination of growing experience and self-improvement.
“I’m at a completely different level now, although I have still kept the good aspects of my first year,” he said.
“But now, I am definitely more in control, more involved with the team when it comes to the development of the car.
“I also act differently, having learned lots of things, not just when it comes to racing but also in my life away from the track.
“Even that has a positive effect on how I race. I had underestimated what was involved, but now I’ve figured out the things that are really important.
“My main goal is to perform more consistently in every race, independently from the car’s performance, and to score points more consistently.
“I want to be more in control of myself at all times.”
And if the 22-year-old can continue on this path, Tost sees a big opportunity in the future for Tsunoda.
“As far as I know, Sergio Perez still has a contract for next year. All I can say is that Yuki is on the right track. He has improved in every respect,” he added.
“But I think he should drive at AlphaTauri again in 2024. In 2025, I think he will finally be ready for Red Bull.”