Yuki Tsunoda is reportedly on the verge of extending his contract with AlphaTauri, according to AMuS
Yuki Tsunoda, the Japanese driver, may have another season in Formula 1. According to our colleagues at Auto Motor und Sports, the announcement of Tsunoda's official confirmation with AlphaTauri in 2024 would take place at Suzuka.
True or False? For the moment, it’s difficult to say. But a piece of the 2024 grid puzzle could be revealed. Yuki Tsunoda, who is in his third season with AlphaTauri, could once again be present next year. The Japanese driver, supported by Honda, could extend his contract for another season with the Italian team, according to our colleagues at Auto Motor und Sports.
He would be paired with Daniel Ricciardo, who made his comeback at the Hungarian Grand Prix after Nyck de Vries was dismissed by Red Bull. Even though he has been absent since Zandvoort and his accident during the second practice session, the Red Bull team seems to have confidence in the Australian.
Four drivers for three spots
But, a problem arises. What about Liam Lawson? The young New Zealander, temporary replacement for Daniel Ricciardo, has proven in the last three races that he has the level for Formula 1. In his first Grand Prix, he delivered a very impressive performance in difficult conditions. At Monza, he was so close to scoring his first points. Finally, in Singapore, he outperformed his teammate in qualifying, reached Q3, and finished in ninth place. Thanks to this performance, he has brought in almost as many points as Yuki Tsunoda throughout the season (3 against 2).
If he is not selected, then where could he go? There are only three available seats left: those at AlphaTauri and the one at Logan Sargeant, who fails to convince his team bosses. If Liam Lawson were to end up at Williams, Red Bull would have to let go of their promising young driver. The Austrian team could also hire him as a reserve driver and potentially field him in 2025. Alternatively, depending on Sergio Perez’s upcoming performances, he could find himself propelled alongside Max Verstappen. In that case, Christian Horner would have to terminate the Mexican’s contract and likely pay several million dollars in compensation since he is under contract until 2024.
Anyway, the Super Licence is not a problem for Liam Lawson. The New Zealander already has it thanks to his performances in the other categories he has raced in.
