Former racer Jacques Villeneuve believes that Yuki Tsunoda needs to be replaced, especially now that Isack Hadjar is making waves at sister team Racing Bulls. The young rookie secured his first Formula 1 podium finish at the recent Grand Prix in Zandvoort. According to Villeneuve, Tsunoda – who has so far been disappointing alongside Max Verstappen – should make way as soon as possible. The Japanese driver is believed to have already reached his peak in the premier class.
After a phenomenal qualifying session, Isack Hadjar started from the second row on Sunday, alongside Red Bull driver and reigning world champion Max Verstappen. During the race, he managed to defend his fourth place, then capitalized on Lando Norris‘s retirement to move up to the podium positions. The French-Algerian driver once again won the admiration of many analysts, including former world champion Jacques Villeneuve. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda only managed to finish in ninth place, his first points finish since the Grand Prix in Imola in May.
Even before Hadjar secured his first podium on Sunday, Villeneuve was hinting at a driver change at Red Bull – Yuki Tsunoda should give up his seat to Hadjar. “I think they already know who he (Tsunoda) is, what he’s worth,” the Canadian told Sky Sports. “He’s been driving for Red Bull’s junior and main team for five years now. They know he’s not good enough,” he criticized the Japanese driver.
‘Tsunoda Has Already Peaked’
“Tsunoda has reached his peak,” Villeneuve explained. “The only reason he’s racing is because of Honda, and Honda is soon withdrawing.” The Japanese car manufacturer has been supplying engines to Red Bull and its sister team, Racing Bulls, for many years, but has signed an exclusive deal with Aston Martin for 2026. According to Villeneuve, top teams are not looking for secondary drivers, but future world champions. “When you’re a team like Red Bull or McLaren, you want two drivers who can compete,” he elaborated. “That brings out the best in the team.”
“The problem is that there’s no obvious solution,” Villeneuve concluded. “Even though they know that Tsunoda simply isn’t good enough. So, what do you do? Do you keep the driver who you know will mainly finish his laps and maybe score some points, but without the team and car really developing further? Or do you take a risk and bring someone else on board?” Hadjar has already admitted that he doesn’t feel ready for the step up to Red Bull, although he would seize the opportunity with both hands if given the chance.
