Yuki Tsunoda has said it is too soon to contemplate the 2026 season despite being linked with a move to Aston Martin-Honda.

The Japanese manufacturer announced their return to Formula 1 this week, confirming they will partner with Aston Martin from the 2026 season onwards.

Tsunoda has been a member of Honda’s Formula Dream Project since 2016 and was supported by the engine manufacturer on his way up the ladder to F1.

During the press conference, Tsunoda’s name was raised as a potential candidate given his nationality but also his previous link with Honda and their racing chief Koji Watanabe admitted he hoped Tsunoda would be a candidate.

The 23-year-old has put in some impressive performances in 2023, squashing any rumours it could be his last, and is not only a candidate for the Aston Martin seat but also potentially the Red Bull one as well.

Addressing the rumours ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, Tsunoda said it was still “too far away” to think about.

“I’m very excited [about Honda’s return],” the AlphaTauri driver said. “It’s good to see them back in the Formula 1 environment. Obviously, it [was] actually a shame when they left after such a massive year with Red Bull [in 2021].

“So I will say it’s good, good for them. I hope they have another successful season with Aston Martin.

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“I don’t know [about my future] for now, to be honest. It’s too far away to think about.”

Tsunoda was also not certain of his own long-term F1 future, suggesting he still has things to prove between now and 2026.

“It’s a long time [away], three years. So first of all, I don’t feel much pressure from it because I have to prove a lot of things anyway in three years. But it’s good that he is saying the right things, you want to be at least be on the list which means you are proving your skills.

“But at the same time, Red Bull were supporting me [for a] long time, long years, and I’m part of Red Bull.”

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