Red Bull Not Rushing 2026 Driver Decision Amid Tsunoda's Progress

Red Bull is taking a measured approach to finalizing its second driver for the 2026 season, with Team Principal Laurent Mekies emphasizing that there's no rush in the decision-making process. The focus remains on supporting current drivers, particularly Yuki Tsunoda, as he navigates a challenging period.### Why it mattersThe selection of Red Bull's 2026 driver is critical for the team's long-term competitive strategy, especially as F1 prepares for significant regulation changes. Tsunoda's ongoing development within the team could shape his future and Red Bull's driver lineup.### The big pictureTsunoda has faced a difficult start to the season with the senior team, struggling to consistently match Max Verstappen, though he has shown flashes of improvement. Mekies acknowledges these setbacks but believes the Japanese driver is making steady progress, highlighting his strong performance towards the end of last year and the beginning of this season.### The details* Tsunoda's Performance: Despite recent struggles, Mekies noted Tsunoda was only a tenth and a half behind Verstappen in Budapest qualifying, a gap that would typically secure a front-row start but led to a Q1 exit on that particular track. Spa also marked a step forward.* 2026 Decision Timeline: "We are not in a rush. We have 10 races to go," Mekies stated, indicating ample time to evaluate drivers and provide support. The team aims to assist Tsunoda in his refreshed approach and ongoing progress.* Team Challenges: Red Bull's 2025 car has proven difficult for drivers other than Verstappen, contributing to their worst Constructors' Championship standing since 2015.* Development Focus: While the primary development focus shifts to the 2026 regulations, Red Bull is committed to using the remaining 2025 races to understand and learn from their current season's difficulties, experimenting with the car and drivers.* Budapest Aftermath: The Hungarian Grand Prix was an "outstanding low" for the team, with Verstappen qualifying eighth and finishing ninth, and Tsunoda failing to escape the lower midfield. Mekies attributed this largely to track-specific characteristics rather than deeper systemic problems.* Remaining 2025 Goals: Red Bull's more modest objective for the rest of 2025 is to secure P3 in the Constructors' Championship, competing against Mercedes and Ferrari, as McLaren currently leads the pace.### What's nextFor the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen will start from third position, with Yuki Tsunoda lining up 12th on the grid.