Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has indicated a potential future for Yuki Tsunoda with the American outfit, specifically for the 2027 Formula 1 season. This comes as Tsunoda currently operates as a reserve driver for Red Bull and Racing Bulls during the 2026 campaign.
Komatsu previously addressed speculation regarding Tsunoda joining Haas for the 2026 season, vehemently dismissing such rumours in May 2026. He stated there was ‘no foundation whatsoever’ to claims of a rift with Esteban Ocon or a potential replacement by Tsunoda.
The current Haas driver lineup for the 2026 season remains unchanged, featuring Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman. Both drivers are under contract with the TGR Haas F1 Team until at least the conclusion of the current season.
Tsunoda, who lost his full-time F1 seat at the end of 2025, recently made a temporary return to a race seat with Racing Bulls. This occurred for the Dutch Grand Prix and continues for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, substituting for the injured Isack Hadjar.
In January 2026, Komatsu acknowledged Tsunoda’s talent, praising his speed and improved consistency. He noted that Tsunoda’s understanding of the car had matured significantly.
Despite the current driver stability at Haas, Komatsu maintained an open stance on Tsunoda’s prospects for 2027. He remarked, ‘You can never say never in Formula 1,’ when discussing future driver market movements.
Komatsu also highlighted the various factors influencing driver decisions, including existing contracts, manufacturer affiliations, and timing. Tsunoda has long-standing ties with Honda, while Haas maintains a technical partnership with Ferrari.
The team principal suggested that the significant regulation changes anticipated for the 2027 season could reset the landscape, potentially creating new opportunities for drivers like Tsunoda.
Tsunoda himself has expressed a clear desire to secure a permanent Formula 1 seat. He stated in August 2026 that he does not wish to spend another year on the sidelines and would explore other racing series if a 2027 F1 opportunity does not materialise.
