P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Yuki Tsunoda will not feature on the 2026 Formula 1 grid, something which did come as a “surprise” after hearing a late rumour.
Yuki Tsunoda was informed that he would lose his F1 seat within the Red Bull family just before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he would be replaced by Isack Hadjar for 2026 as Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad joined Racing Bulls.
Despite this change, Tsunoda will transition to Red Bull’s reserve and test driver role at the beginning of the new power unit regulations, halting his active racing career.
Having initially prepared for a reserve role, Tsunoda was surprised by the news as he had heard rumors just moments before that hinted at him keeping his spot on the grid.
Despite feeling the initial shock, Tsunoda remains optimistic about his future with Red Bull, as he is open to potentially more responsibilities beyond simulator and backup duties for the upcoming season.
