Marko postpones Tsunoda's call while Palou leaves the possibility open.
"You never reject something you haven't had the chance to consider."
Red Bull is not in a hurry to determine Yuki Tsunoda’s future in Formula 1, as advisor Dr. Helmut Marko has indicated that a decision will only be made in September or October. "We have extended the options and will observe a few more races," Marko stated to Sport1. "We aim to finalize our decision in September or October." This statement follows a week filled with speculation connecting Indycar standout Alex Palou to Tsunoda’s position for 2026. Although Palou, his team, and Chip Ganassi Racing denied the rumors, the Spaniard did not completely dismiss the possibilities. "You never say no to something that you haven’t heard," Palou said with a smile to the Indianapolis Star. "It’s good to have rumors. I think they actually help raise awareness about our championship — maybe for different reasons — but more people are recognizing what we’ve accomplished this year, which is fantastic." Veteran F1 journalist Ralf Bach is skeptical about Marko's uncertainty regarding Tsunoda’s future. "It’s good for the public to hear ‘We’re still evaluating things,’" he remarked to f1-insider.com. "But I know Helmut Marko well enough. When he has his favorites, he is determined to bring them into Formula 1." Hadjar is considered the leading candidate, with Bach arguing that any hesitation due to fears of being overshadowed by Verstappen, as was the case for Liam Lawson or Tsunoda, is short-sighted. "You can’t keep them in a bubble forever," the German said. "Sometimes you need to take risks." Bach also believes that 18-year-old Arvid Lindblad is clearly being positioned for a spot with Racing Bulls. "Hadjar will likely be promoted, which means Tsunoda will need to find a new seat," he added. "In my opinion, Verstappen will race alongside Hadjar, and Lindblad will join the Racing Bulls next year, along with Liam Lawson."
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Marko postpones Tsunoda's call while Palou leaves the possibility open.
Formula 1 | Red Bull will take its time in making a decision about Yuki Tsunoda's future in Formula 1, with advisor Dr. Helmut Marko stating that a judgment will only be made in September.