Tsunoda Under Pressure as Marko Takes Charge of Red Bull Driver Line-Up

Helmut Marko has regained control of Red Bull’s driver line-up following the shock dismissal of Christian Horner, putting increased pressure on Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver, who replaced Liam Lawson in March, initially showed promise by scoring points in his second race for Red Bull. However, he has failed to score in the last five Grands Prix. 

Marko is reportedly unimpressed with Tsunoda’s qualifying performances, which include a Q1 crash at Imola and disappointing results in Monaco (P12), Spain (P20), Canada (P11), Austria (P18), and Britain (P12). In contrast, teammate Max Verstappen secured pole at Silverstone. Red Bull only promoted Tsunoda after Lawson failed to impress, but with his contract expiring at the end of 2025, Tsunoda’s seat is far from secure. As Laurent Mekies steps in to replace Horner, Tsunoda faces mounting pressure to earn a contract extension.