Honda don't expect departure to hinder Tsunoda's opportunities

According to Honda top executive Masashi Yamamoto, the departure of his company from Formula 1 will not affect Yuki Tsunoda's future in the sport. The young Japanese's chances of a debut next year seem to be reduced by the departure of Honda.

Rumours have been circulating for some time that next year Tsunoda will replace Daniil Kvyat at AlphaTauri under pressure from engine supplier Honda. The Japanese company would like to see a Japanese rider in the sport again, but because of their departure it remains to be seen whether this will happen.

Departure has no influence.

Yamamoto said in the press conference this afternoon that Tsunoda's chances of making the move to the pinnacle of motorsport next year are still the same.

"I personally do not think that our departure will have any impact on that. Red Bull does not let the first one drive the best in their car. They will evaluate him strictly as a junior driver. And of course it also depends on the results he achieves in Formula 2. But we want to support him where we can."

Franz Tost, team boss of AlphaTauri, doesn't want to reveal too much just yet.

"Alpha Tauri already has two very fast drivers. We will do the young driver test with Yuki Tsunoda, but this has nothing to do with Honda's decision to leave. The philosophy at Red Bull is always about performance, and if Yuki performs well, that will be the deciding factor. His performance is leading. He always has been and always will be."