Racing
© Jonathan Borba
Yuki Tsunoda is now reportedly unlikely to return to Formula 1 as a full-time driver in 2027, with GPblog indicating an IndyCar switch is becoming the more realistic path after fresh doubts over a Haas opening.
That marks a sharp turn from earlier speculation around Haas. On Sky Sports F1's The F1 Show, commentator David Croft said that if Haas chose to replace Esteban Ocon, "Tsunoda is an option. Tsunoda is the top choice." GPblog's reporting points the other way, saying Tsunoda is not in Haas's 2027 plans at all.
The key issue appears to be manufacturer alignment. GPblog says Haas could still look at a Japanese driver, but any such move would more likely come from partner Toyota's side, while Tsunoda has long-standing ties to Honda.
Tsunoda has been without a full-time F1 seat since the end of 2025, when Red Bull Racing dropped him in favor of Isack Hadjar after a difficult season alongside Max Verstappen. He has since worked as a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing and occasionally Racing Bulls while his management continues to search for a race seat.
Haas still has reason to assess its options around Ocon. Karan Chandhok said on The F1 Show that Ocon is "3 wins and 8 losses to Bearman" in comparable qualifying sessions and was "distanced by a lot" in Austria. Ocon finished the Austrian Grand Prix 16th, two laps behind the leader, and has scored three points this season compared with Oliver Bearman's 18.
If Haas is no longer a genuine route back, IndyCar becomes the clearest alternative in the current reporting. GPblog says Tsunoda's relationship with Honda remains strong, and that connection could matter in a series where Honda is one of the two engine suppliers.
A potential landing spot is also part of that picture. GPblog says a seat could open at Chip Ganassi if Scott Dixon leaves as expected, which would put Tsunoda in line for a Honda-powered opportunity at a team that already fields reigning champion and current championship leader Alex Palou.