Yuki Tsunoda has revealed that he heard a rumour he was set to keep an F1 seat within the Red Bull family, just moments before being informed he would lose his spot.

It was announced ahead of the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that Tsunoda would be replaced by Isack Hadjar for 2026, while Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad would form Racing Bulls’ driver pairing.

As a result, the Japanese driver will take Red Bull’s reserve and test driver role at the start of the new power unit regulations, bringing his time on the grid to a halt.

Tsunoda was informed of Red Bull’s 2026 plans after the Qatar Grand Prix and had “prepared” himself for a reserve role.

However, before being officially told, he had heard from elsewhere that he would remain on the grid, making the news all the more surprising.

“I was told after the race in Qatar, but honestly, it didn’t feel real at first,” Tsunoda told the Japanese branch of DAZN. “I had prepared myself for that possibility, but the news was different from what I’d heard before, so it took me by surprise. 

“I heard that the decision might have been changed just before my briefing. There must be a lot of reasons behind it. But when they told me I don’t have a permanent seat next year, it wasn’t like the world collapsed. 

“We had Abu Dhabi coming up, so I immediately focused on the next race.” 

Despite the disappointment of taking on a reserve role for next year, Tsunoda has also heard that he could be set for more than just the usual back up duties.

“There’s a chance that it won’t just be simulator and backup duties next year,” revealed Tsunoda.

“I’ve already heard a few possible scenarios. For now, I’ll rest and then start training for next season.”