Helmut Marko has had his say on the latest driver market rumors and must be prepared for the compensation payment

Helmut Marko has suggested that if Aston Martin wants to retain Yuki Tsunoda for 2024 and beyond, they must be willing to pay Red Bull compensation. Before his home race, the 23-year-old signed a one-year contract extension with AlphaTauri.

Tsunoda has taken a stride ahead in 2023, establishing himself as a team captain with the Faenza-based business after a rough start to his F1 career in his rookie and sophomore seasons.

The 23-year-old’s outstanding performances eventually led to the resignation of Nyck de Vries, who was sacked by Marko just ten races into his AlphaTauri career after being embarrassed by Tsunoda, who had claimed 100% of the team’s points tally before to Liam Lawson’s debut.

This form has naturally led to some interest from outside of the AlphaTauri set-up and with no seats available at the top table for 2024 and Daniel Ricciardo the favoured option for 2025, Tsunoda will need to assess his options away from the Red Bull ranks too.

When asked about the likelihood of Tsunoda joining Aston Martin next year, Marko answered, “Tsunoda is under contract with us.” If Aston Martin is interested in him next year, they must first reach a deal with us.”

Tsunoda and Aston Martin were first linked when it was announced that Honda would power the Silverstone-based team starting in 2026. The Japanese manufacturer was instrumental in introducing the 23-year-old to the sport and guiding him through the junior ranks.

At the introduction of the Honda alliance, Aston Martin CEO Martin Whitmarsh said of the Japanese racer, “He’s making a great impression this year.” He’s still quite young, but he has some experience. But I believe he has made significant progress. It’s quite exciting.

“I’m confident that our driver lineup will evolve before 2026.” Finally, Honda and Aston Martin want to have the greatest two drivers possible in the cars. We are here to win, as is Honda, and we must start winning together in 2026. We must have excellent drivers.

“He should be considered a candidate.” I’m sure he’d enjoy driving a Honda vehicle. Let’s see how he progresses over the next few years, and hopefully we’ll be able to have some meaningful debates together.”