Marko: Tsunoda's promotion before home Japanese GP purely a 'coincidence'

For Honda, Yuki Tsunoda’s promotion to Red Bull Racing is a major milestone. At the Japanese Grand Prix, a homegrown driver is making his debut for a top team powered by a Japanese engine. However, Red Bull insists that the timing of Tsunoda’s first race in the RB21 at Suzuka is purely coincidental.

Last week, it was revealed that Honda has opened its wallet, paying Red Bull millions now that Yuki Tsunoda has been promoted to partner with Max Verstappen. While GPblog had previously confirmed this off the record, Helmut Marko has now publicly acknowledged that the manufacturer is making a financial contribution.

But, the Red Bull Racing external advisor says: "That has not been decisive and was not the motivation [of Red Bull to replace Liam Lawson ]," Marko told formel1.de.

Marko does acknowledge, however, that Honda is absolutely delighted with the promotion of their protégé, Tsunoda. After all, has been with Red Bull's junior team since 2021. "That it happens before the race in Japan is a coincidence. And that Honda is happy with the decision, that's obvious. But that was not the decisive point. With Honda, the contract also ends after the year," Marko said.

From 2026, Honda will become Aston Martin's official engine supplier. However, the company has consistently stated its commitment to supporting its protégés, even if they are signed with rival teams in Formula 1. This could very well apply to Tsunoda at Red Bull in 2026.

The Japanese Grand Prix takes place next weekend, and all the action from Suzuka can be followed here on GPblog.