Yuki Tsunoda Eyes 2027 IndyCar Debut with Meyer Shank Racing

Formula 1 veteran Yuki Tsunoda may be preparing for a major career shift, with reports indicating a move to the IndyCar Series for the 2027 campaign. The Japanese driver is reportedly vying for the #66 Meyer Shank Racing (MSR) Honda entry, marking a potential second act in North American open-wheel racing as his path in F1 becomes increasingly narrow.

Why it matters:

With F1 race seats remaining incredibly scarce, Tsunoda's potential move follows a successful blueprint established by his compatriot Takuma Sato, who transitioned from F1 to become a two-time Indianapolis 500 champion. For Tsunoda, who has spent the current season as a test and reserve driver for Red Bull Racing, this move represents a strategic pivot to maintain a competitive race seat at the highest level of motorsport.

The details:

• The Target Seat: Tsunoda is pursuing the #66 MSR Honda entry. This opening arises as Marcus Armstrong moves to the #60 sister car to replace departing Indy 500 winner Felix Rosenqvist.
• Proven Experience: Tsunoda is not entirely new to the machinery; he drove a Chip Ganassi Racing Honda in late 2024, receiving coaching from six-time champion Scott Dixon.
• F1 Pedigree: Since his 2021 debut, Tsunoda has accumulated 111 Grand Prix starts, with a career-best fourth-place finish in Abu Dhabi.
• The Hurdle: While Tsunoda has expressed an affinity for the U.S., he previously admitted to being intimidated by the extreme speeds and endurance requirements of American oval racing.

Between the lines:

Tsunoda's willingness to negotiate a move to IndyCar suggests a pragmatic realization regarding his standing within the Red Bull ecosystem. After serving as a reserve driver, the leap to MSR indicates that he is prioritizing active racing over a hopeful wait for an F1 vacancy. His previous fears regarding the Indianapolis Motor Speedway now seem to be taking a backseat to the allure of a guaranteed professional campaign.

What's next:

Negotiations are currently ongoing, though nothing is finalized. MSR co-owner Mike Shank has stated that the team is still vetting various candidates from across different motorsport disciplines. The final decision will likely hinge on the 2027 F1 driver market and Tsunoda's ability to commit to the demanding nature of the IndyCar schedule.