Yuki Tsunoda addresses 'tough situation' Red Bull F1 future

Yuki Tsunoda has acknowledged the need for more point-scoring races to ensure his future within the Red Bull squad.

Having been overlooked for a Red Bull promotion at the start of the year in favour of Liam Lawson, Tsunoda got his chance after two rounds amid struggles for the New Zealander.

Tsunoda has faced his own challenges at the Milton Keynes-based squad, scoring points just once in the last nine grands prix.

His results have placed his future with the Red Bull team in doubt, with Racing Bulls rookie star Isack Hadjar being linked with his drive for next season.

When asked by RacingNews365 if he feels he is doing enough to secure a 2026 seat, Tsunoda replied: "Whether it's enough or it's not enough, it's up to them. 

“I'm just squeezing the performance from the current package I've got. I'm just pushing every single room that they gave me, and it's clear that I'm able to make the progress race by race.

"But also at the same time, we need the points. That's something that we can see clearly on the paper and that's what I'm working on.

“So overall, I don't know. It's up to them, I just have to keep pushing.”

Tsunoda has to 'believe' in himself

Tsunoda ended the Italian Grand Prix last weekend in 13th, dropping down the order after starting inside the top 10.

The Japanese driver highlighted his frustration with picking up damage in contact with Liam Lawson, but feels he is making steps forward when it comes to qualifying performance.

"It's a tough situation but at the same time [my] quali lap is getting better and better," he said. “There are some positives, which help me a lot.

"But long runs, there's room that I can work on a little bit more, but at the same time, like [the Italian GP], which didn't help me from the damage, it's not easy. 

“But I just have to keep fighting and turn up and believe in myself.”