For a while, Alpine’s Jack Doohan looked like the next driver on his way out of Formula 1.
But now the focus has shifted elsewhere.
While Doohan may be on the chopping block at Alpine, it’s another driver who is really starting to feel the heat.
Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda.
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Although rumors swirl about potential changes at Alpine with Franco Colapinto being mentioned as a possible lead driver it is Tsunoda who is drawing the most attention in the paddock.
The Japanese Red Bull driver is up against the wall after a poor start to the season, having scored just six points in four races.
By comparison, teammate Max Verstappen already has 63 points on the board.
That puts Tsunoda far below Red Bull’s expectations, and the team’s patience may be wearing thin.
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Red Bull Losing Patience with Tsunoda
Tsunoda began the season with a pointless finish in Japan and retired early in Saudi Arabia.
He managed to finish tenth in Miami, but that result came only after penalties to other drivers.
His qualifying sessions have been underwhelming, and his race performances continue to disappoint.
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Red Bull management led by Christian Horner is reportedly losing patience.
Horner believes Tsunoda is overdriving the car in qualifying, which negatively impacts his race pace.
There is speculation that Tsunoda could move to Aston Martin next year, particularly since Honda – with whom he has strong ties – will be supplying engines to the team.
That could open up a role for him as a test or reserve driver.
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If Red Bull decides to make a change before the end of the season, Isack Hadjar is being floated as a potential replacement.
While Hadjar still has a lot to prove in Formula 2, his speed has impressed the team.
The big question now does Red Bull have the nerve to make a move already this season?
Source: Racing.nl
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