Yuki Tsunoda Skips IndyCar Test as Cadillac F1 Rumors Swirl

Yuki Tsunoda, who has been aiming for a return to the Formula 1 grid in 2027, seems to be steering clear of an IndyCar switch. Reports surfaced in August that he was in discussions with Meyer Shank Racing for a potential seat, but the anticipated IndyCar evaluation test slated for October 26 never took place. According to Honda president Koji Watanabe, Tsunoda had the freedom to make his own choices regarding his career path. "Since Tsunoda is already an independent professional racing driver, these were negotiations between his team and Meyer Shank Racing," Watanabe explained. "We only learned about the cancellation afterward."

Tsunoda had a brief return to F1 action in August, stepping in for the injured Isack Hadjar in the Racing Bulls team. He impressively scored a point at Monza, renewing his call to F1 teams to consider him for any open seats. His efforts to stay in the F1 spotlight have recently been tied to Cadillac, amid uncertainty over Valtteri Bottas' future with the team. While Tsunoda's representatives are in talks, the competition is fierce, especially with reserve driver Colton Herta, whose American nationality aligns with Cadillac's interests. Herta, however, has struggled in Formula 2.

For Tsunoda, this is perhaps his only realistic chance to secure a full-time F1 seat for next year, as most other teams have already filled their rosters. Should he not secure a spot, his chances of an F1 return in the future look bleak, though he may revisit the IndyCar route for 2028 if necessary. During the US Grand Prix weekend, Watanabe met with Tsunoda and offered some thoughtful advice. "I told him, 'You should do what you want to do. It would be best if you could stay in F1, but if that doesn’t happen, we can talk again then.'"

While Tsunoda's F1 dreams hang in the balance, the decision over who will join Sergio Perez at Cadillac remains undecided. Bottas, despite being outpaced by Perez this year, could still be retained. However, the intrigue surrounding Tsunoda continues, as his career path remains a topic of much speculation and interest.