Yuki Tsunoda retained by AlphaTauri; uncertainty over Pierre Gasly's future

The 22-year-old Japanese driver lands a third campaign with Red Bull's sister team after making his Formula One debut in 2021.

Dutchman Nyck de Vries, who stood in for Alex Albon at the last round in Monza, has been mooted as a potential replacement for Gasly if the Frenchman leaves AlphaTauri.

Tsunoda, who has finished in the top 10 three times this season, with a career best of fourth at last year's finale in Abu Dhabi, said: "I want to say a huge thank you to Red Bull, Honda and Scuderia AlphaTauri for continuing to give me the opportunity to drive in Formula One.

"Having moved to Italy last year, to be closer to the factory, I really feel part of the team and am glad that I get to carry on racing with them in 2023.

"Of course, our 2022 season isn't over yet and we're still pushing hard in the midfield battle, so I'm fully focused on finishing it on a high and then we will look forward to next year."

Tsunoda is 16th in the standings with 11 points, compared to Gasly's tally of 22.

AlphaTauri team principal Franz Tost said: "As we've seen since he joined us last year, Yuki is a very talented driver and has improved a lot this season.

"The pace he has shown recently is clear evidence of a steep learning curve, which proves he deserves a seat in F1, and I still expect some strong results from him in the last six races of 2022.

"As I always say, a driver needs at least three years to fully get to grips with Formula One, so I'm pleased he's been given the time to show his full potential."