Yuki Tsunoda avoided addressing speculation about his future during an appearance at a Honda event in Tokyo, pre-empting questions from reporters.
"No questions about next season, as we have been advised," the Japanese driver declared.
Tsunoda, who recently tested the Red Bull Racing car after the Abu Dhabi season finale, is seen as an outside contender to replace Sergio Perez at the team for 2025. However, his future appears tied to Honda, who will partner with Aston Martin in 2026.
During the FIA's end-of-season prize-giving gala in Rwanda, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner acknowledged that Perez's performance in 2024 has left his seat vulnerable, with Tsunoda and Liam Lawson considered the primary candidates for a potential replacement.
Speculation around Tsunoda's suitability for the top seat at Red Bull has focused on his inconsistency and aggressive on-track persona. Others believe his close ties with Honda complicate his chances.
"I think he will go with Honda to Aston Martin in 2026, in (Lance) Stroll's place," said Rick Wilkelman, a journalist for Ziggo Sport.
Adding to the intrigue, a leaked version of the FIA's 2025 entry list places Tsunoda back at Red Bull's junior team, Racing Bulls, with no teammate yet listed. Meanwhile, Perez remains named as a Red Bull Racing driver, as per his existing contract.
However, reports suggest that Red Bull is definitely negotiating terms for an amicable separation with Perez, with the split expected to be framed as a mutual decision.
"The deal is done," claimed Ziggo Sport reporter Jack Plooij. "I've heard he (Perez) is saying, 'I'm quitting, it's over.' The only problem is the money. He wants to see money.
"I think Perez has said, 'First you make sure the money is there, and then I will announce it.'"
