Yuki Tsunoda’s plan to return to the F1 grid in 2027 is already taking shape
Photo by Jayce Illman/Getty Images Yuki Tsunoda will be watching from the sidelines as Formula 1 returns to his home country for the Japanese Grand Prix, but there are some early signs that suggest he could be back on the grid in 2027. For the first time since 2020, there won’t be a Japanese driver at Suzuka. That year was just before Tsunoda’s debut, and now, four years later, he’s off the grid.
Ironically, it was at this same race last year when he made his high-profile move to Red Bull. In hindsight, staying with Racing Bulls might have been better for his career. Like others before him, he found it tough going up against Max Verstappen.
He ended up losing his seat to Isack Hadjar and moved into a reserve role. Yuki Tsunoda eyeing Esteban Ocon’s seat at Haas Tsunoda’s camp has reportedly identified Haas as a possible route back into F1. The American team have had a strong start to the season, sitting fourth in the constructors’ standings with 17 points, all scored by Oliver Bearman.
Bearman has been linked to a move to Ferrari, but Lewis Hamilton’s recent form could put that on hold. That doesn’t necessarily close doors for Tsunoda, though, as there may still be an opening at Haas. Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu hasn’t been shy about his disappointment with Esteban Ocon’s performances since he joined the team.
This year hasn’t started much better, with Ocon consistently outperformed by the less experienced Bearman. Ocon finished 14th in China after receiving a 10-second penalty for causing a collision with Franco Colapinto. Meanwhile, Bearman took an impressive P5 finish in the other car.