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Yuki Tsunoda addresses Max Verstappen comments regarding 2026 Formula 1 driver input

Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 1:53 PM

Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Yuki Tsunoda addresses Max Verstappen comments regarding 2026 Formula 1 driver input

Summary

Yuki Tsunoda dismissed recent remarks from Max Verstappen concerning the impact of driver skill on 2026 Formula 1 car performance. Verstappen suggested that recent results highlight a reduced reliance on individual driver contributions under the new technical regulations. The two drivers competed as teammates at Red Bull during the previous year. While Verstappen secured second place in the championship standings, Tsunoda finished in 17th position. Following that performance, Tsunoda was replaced by Isack Hadjar for the 2026 season. Tsunoda currently serves as the reserve driver for the team.

Source Links

Motorsport.com

By the Numbers

•Yuki Tsunoda responded to public comments made by Max Verstappen regarding 2026 vehicle performance.
•Max Verstappen claimed recent results demonstrate decreased importance of driver input in new cars.
•Tsunoda and Max Verstappen were teammates at Red Bull during the previous season.
•Isack Hadjar replaced Tsunoda at Red Bull for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
•Tsunoda occupies a reserve driver role following his 17th-place championship finish last year.

Latest Updates

1:53 PMMotorsport.com — Yuki Tsunoda responds to Max Verstappen's F1 2026 claim

What they're saying

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Yuki Tsunoda shrugged off Max Verstappen’s comments that his recent results are evidence of driver input being less important with the new 2026 Formula 1 cars. Both drivers were team-mates at Red Bull last year, but while Verstappen finished second in the championship, Tsunoda was down in 17th and therefore replaced by Isack Hadjar for 2026. The 26-year-old became the team’s reserve ...Keep reading
— Motorsport.com

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