Yuki Tsunoda to drive RB20 in end-of-season Red Bull test

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Yuki Tsunoda set for Red Bull test at season's end.

Mexico City – Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda will get behind the wheel of the reigning Formula 1 champions' car for a test session at the end of the season, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner announced on Friday. This opportunity arises due to the influence of engine partners Honda, who are slated to switch their alliance from Red Bull to Aston Martin at the end of next year.

Currently racing for Red Bull-owned RB, where he has a contract through the next year, Tsunoda will pilot the RB20 during the Abu Dhabi end-of-season test.

"Yuki is a member of the junior team, and it's something that we have discussed with Honda," Horner stated at the Mexico City Grand Prix. "It will again be good to give him a run, and get the opportunity to work with Red Bull Racing engineers and see how he performs in a Red Bull Racing car."

This upcoming test marks Tsunoda’s first significant engagement with Red Bull Racing’s primary team, with his only previous interaction being a demonstration run at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Both the Red Bull Racing and RB teams utilize drivers contracted to Red Bull, which allows for flexibility in driver movements between the squads. Looking ahead, RB is expected to feature Tsunoda alongside New Zealander Liam Lawson in their 2025 lineup. However, poor performances from Sergio Perez have left open the possibility that triple champion Max Verstappen might see a new teammate at Red Bull Racing.

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