Tsunoda emerges as frontrunner for Haas seat to replace Ocon

Tsunoda's F1 Return Gaining Momentum

Yuki Tsunoda's prospects of returning to the Formula 1 grid are growing more concrete, with a new report suggesting Haas could be his most viable route back. After five consecutive seasons competing under the Red Bull umbrella, Tsunoda was dropped entirely at the end of last year — not even offered a return to Racing Bulls — following a difficult stint alongside Max Verstappen at the senior team that failed to live up to expectations.

With a reserve driver role for 2026 now his only foothold in the sport, the clock is ticking on Tsunoda's F1 future. A permanent exit at the end of the year appears increasingly likely unless a race seat materialises.

Ocon Under Pressure, Komatsu Eyes Alternatives

According to a report from Autosport Web, Tsunoda held a "serious discussion" with Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu last year regarding a potential 2026 drive. Komatsu ultimately opted to retain Esteban Ocon — but that decision is now coming under intense scrutiny.

Ocon has managed just a single point across the first five races of the season, a stark contrast to teammate Oliver Bearman's 18-point haul over the same period. The disparity has fuelled mounting speculation over Ocon's long-term future at the team, even though Komatsu moved swiftly to dismiss mid-season exit rumours ahead of the Canadian GP — calling reports of an imminent departure "absolute b——-" with "zero foundation whatsoever".

Despite that denial, AS-Web contributor Nate Saunders — citing sources familiar with the situation — reports that Ocon is "likely" to lose his seat at the end of the year, even if he is expected to see out the campaign. The driver market picture at Haas is therefore starting to sharpen, with Tsunoda identified as someone who "could become a strong option" for 2027.

It's a driver market dynamic not unlike what's unfolding elsewhere on the grid — similar pressure is building at Cadillac, where Valtteri Bottas has also been linked with a potential mid-season exit, underscoring how unsettled the 2027 silly season has already become.

Honda Ties No Longer a Barrier

One of the most significant developments in this story is the reported resolution of a key obstacle. Komatsu is described as a long-term admirer of Tsunoda's talent, but a move had previously been complicated by Tsunoda's historical ties to Honda — a commercially sensitive issue given that Toyota serves as Haas's title sponsor.

Crucially, Saunders has learned that "Tsunoda is free from ties with Honda", following the Japanese manufacturer's departure from the Red Bull power unit supply arrangement. That removes what had been one of the clearest structural barriers to a Haas deal, making any future negotiation significantly more straightforward.

On the other side of the Haas garage, Oliver Bearman's position appears far more secure. His contract is expected to be renewed barring an unforeseen departure of either Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc from Ferrari, which would trigger a significant reshuffling of the driver market.

For Tsunoda, the window may be narrow — but it is open.

Tsunoda's F1 Return Gaining Momentum