The second seat at Red Bull Racing is the most desired yet the most dreadful option for any driver in Formula 1 right now. If the last five seasons have shown us anything, it’s that being teammates with Max Verstappen could lead to demoralization for any contender. And there are a few drivers who are contending for that coveted yet precarious seat for 2025 as Sergio Perez‘s contract comes to an end this season. And while many believe that Daniel Ricciardo is leading that race, Red Bull advisor, Dr. Helmut Marko has made it clear that Yuki Tsunoda also has a chance of getting promoted.

In fact, before Ricciardo came back into the Red Bull camp, Tsunoda and Liam Lawson were the only realistic options as in-house replacements for the Mexican. However, the Aussie’s return was significant for Red Bull due to his impressive track record with the team and status as a proven race winner.

2024 will be a true test for both Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda

While Ricciardo has undoubtedly proven himself in the past, it’s hard to say the same for Yuki Tsunoda. He was beaten by Pierre Gasly in his first 2 seasons, and the 2023 results are unreliable as he had 3 different teammates throughout the season. 2024 will be the real test for Tsunoda as he goes up against one of the most talented drivers on the grid. But it will also be a test for Daniel Ricciardo at the same time. He’s had a difficult few years in the sport and will be looking to stamp his authority once again in Formula 1.

In a recent conversation with Kleine Zeitung, Dr. Helmut Marko spoke about the possible contenders for the seat alongside Max Verstappen. In regards to Daniel and Yuki, he said, “For both of them, it’s not just about staying in Formula 1, but also about the possibility of promotion to Red Bull Racing. This applies to the person who clearly dominates the season within the team.”

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However, Red Bull is not focused entirely on an in-house replacement. Dr. Marko made it plenty clear that they are open to recruiting someone from outside the Red Bull family. Some of the names that have come up in recent times are Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz, who will be a free agent in 2025 as Lewis Hamilton replaces him at Ferrari. Although Williams has confirmed that Albon will be staying with them for the 2025 season as well. So that option is no longer available.

Daniel Ricciardo Is “Next to Max [Verstappen] on the Grid”, Reveals Christian Horner

Ricciardo has an unfair advantage over Tsunoda

While Dr. Marko has made it clear that both Visa Cash App RB drivers are in for the fight to get a promotion, Ricciardo remains the favorite for Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. We know this because the man said it himself in the 6th season of Drive To Survive which was recently released on Netflix.

One particularly interesting moment in the series occurs in Episode 2, as Horner is spending quality time with his family. In a candid exchange with his daughter, she poses a question that caught everyone off guard: “Who’s first place in your heart?“ Without hesitation, Horner mentioned that it was “Daniel Ricciardo”. He backed it up with Ricciardo’s impressive time with Red Bull, highlighting his achievements during his five-year stint, including 7 Grand Prix victories and over 20 podium finishes.

Do you think Horner will favor Ricciardo over Tsunoda regardless of how the 2024 season pans out? Share your insights in the comments down below.