Tensions Rise: Yuki Tsunoda’s Frustrations with Red Bull Team Dynamics Surface Against Daniel Ricciardo

Yuki Tsunoda, acknowledging a disparity in self-control compared to his Red Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo, voiced frustrations during the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix when the team requested a swap between them. Ricciardo, on softer tires and theoretically faster, was allowed to challenge Haas driver Kevin Magnussen.

Despite the battle lacking significance in terms of points, with Ricciardo in 13th and Tsunoda in 14th, Red Bull chose not to reverse the positions at the race’s conclusion. Tsunoda expressed exasperation on lap 52, stating, “Are you kidding me? Now?”

Ricciardo shared his frustration, feeling the team delayed the switch too long. “Yeah, I don’t need to say anything. We’ve wasted a whole lap,” he remarked.

The tense exchange continued over the team radio, with Tsunoda delivering sarcastic gratitude and criticizing Ricciardo’s pace. This clash between them, surprising after just one race, escalated post-race when Tsunoda confronted Ricciardo in a peculiar display of discontent.

With both drivers potentially vying for a seat alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull, tensions are high. Red Bull is wary of pairing a temperamental driver with Verstappen, a concern Tsunoda acknowledges.

Tsunoda recognizes Ricciardo’s strengths in self-control and constructive feedback, qualities highly valued by teams. Red Bull is expected to decide on their second seat after the winter break, with Ricciardo and Tsunoda seen as primary contenders alongside Sergio Perez.

Uncertainty clouds Tsunoda’s future at Red Bull, particularly with the team’s planned engine switch to Ford in 2026. Speculation suggests Tsunoda could join Aston Martin when they transition to Honda power units.

Former team owner Eddie Jordan sheds light on Honda’s influence, suggesting Tsunoda’s presence at Red Bull is driven by Honda’s preference to maintain a Japanese driver. Jordan recalls similar pressure from Honda during his tenure at Jordan Grand Prix, emphasizing the significance of engine suppliers in driver decisions.