Tsunoda to drive Red Bull's 2011 title-winning RB7 in San Francisco demo

Yuki Tsunoda will get back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car next month, driving Red Bull's championship-winning RB7 in a demonstration run through the streets of San Francisco. The event marks a public showcase for the driver who was moved to a test and reserve role at Red Bull Racing for the 2026 season after losing his full-time seat.

Why it matters:

For Tsunoda, this demonstration is a high-profile opportunity to stay connected to the F1 spotlight and remind teams of his capabilities while serving as Red Bull's reserve driver. Public driving appearances are often used by drivers in similar positions to maintain relevance and showcase their skills directly to fans and potential suitors, keeping their name in circulation for future opportunities.

The details:

• The demonstration event will take place in San Francisco, featuring Tsunoda alongside other motorsport and action sports personalities like former F1 driver Scott Speed.
• He will pilot the RB7, the car Sebastian Vettel drove to Red Bull's second consecutive Constructors' Championship in 2011.
• Tsunoda expressed excitement about performing donuts and creating "real F1 noise" for the crowd.
• His promotion to the senior Red Bull team in 2025, replacing Liam Lawson mid-season, was followed by the team's decision to sign Isack Hadjar for 2026, relegating Tsunoda to the reserve role.
• Team Principal Laurent Mekies called the demotion a "difficult call," citing the challenge of the car and the need to plan for future years, but expressed confidence Tsunoda would get another chance.

Looking ahead:

Tsunoda's immediate future is defined by his reserve driver duties, putting him first in line should a seat at Red Bull or sister team Racing Bulls become available. Mekies himself referenced Tsunoda's own rapid promotion in 2025 after a setback as proof that fortunes can change quickly in F1. Strong performances in simulator work, testing, and demonstrations like the one in San Francisco will be crucial for him to capitalize on any potential opening.