Yuki Tsunoda has acknowledged that he believed his opportunity for a Red Bull promotion had passed before he was surprisingly chosen to take Liam Lawson`s place. He has also spoken about the objectives set for him by his new team.
Tsunoda is set to debut for Red Bull`s main team at the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend, at his home circuit. This comes shortly after he was initially passed over for the Red Bull seat in favor of Lawson, who had less experience.
In an interview during a Red Bull event in Tokyo, Tsunoda mentioned that he considered his test for the team in Abu Dhabi at the end of last season as his last shot at promotion.
When asked if he thought the Red Bull opportunity would never materialize after racing for their junior team for four years, Tsunoda admitted that he honestly thought so.
- Liam Lawson expressed his shock at being demoted from Red Bull.
- Check the schedule for the Japanese GP.
He recounted that even when he was a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing earlier this year, preparing for seat fittings before pre-season testing, he had doubts about whether the promotion would actually happen.
Tsunoda explained that he felt his best chance was at the end of last season, and when it didn`t happen, he was surprised but focused on performing well with RB.
However, Lawson`s difficult start to the season has now opened the door for Tsunoda to race alongside Max Verstappen in the RB21, especially at the Japanese Grand Prix, which is significant for engine partner Honda.
Tsunoda`s career has been supported by Honda for a long time.
Considering the unexpected nature of this promotion, Tsunoda finds it hard to imagine a more surprising situation in the future. However, he is enthusiastic about the challenge and adventure ahead.
Despite being a significant opportunity, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has often described the seat next to Verstappen as one of the most challenging in Formula 1.
Tsunoda is now the fifth driver to occupy this seat in seven seasons, following Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, and Liam Lawson.
Tsunoda anticipates a challenge in competing with Verstappen, acknowledging him as the top driver currently. He plans to gradually build his pace and learn from Verstappen, noting his five years of experience with RB as an advantage.
Tsunoda`s Disappointment and Acceptance
When asked about Lawson`s situation, Tsunoda compared it to his own disappointment when he initially missed the Red Bull seat. He acknowledged that it wasn`t easy for him at the end of last season either, but he accepted it as part of the sport.
Tsunoda believes Lawson will recover strongly, praising the supportive environment at RB and hoping for strong performances from all Red Bull-related cars.
The Risk if Tsunoda Struggles
Christian Horner mentioned that Red Bull needs to leverage Tsunoda`s experience, especially with car handling issues that have even troubled Verstappen. He admitted there`s a risk Tsunoda might also struggle, which would point to car issues. However, he hopes Tsunoda`s experience will help in car development this season.
Horner emphasized that giving Tsunoda this chance now, at a familiar track, allows for a substantial impact over the season. He confirmed no further driver changes are expected this year, relying on both drivers and car development to improve performance.
Tsunoda`s Goals at Suzuka
Unlike Lawson, Tsunoda hasn`t had pre-season testing in the RB21. His first experience with the car will be in Friday practice at Suzuka. He has been given the same targets as Lawson: to qualify close to Verstappen and support Red Bull`s championship efforts.
Tsunoda recognizes the difficulty of matching Verstappen but aims to do his best. Confident from recent Q3 qualifications, he plans to quickly adapt to the car and contribute to the team`s development. Initially, he is focused on enjoying the race, understanding the car, and providing specific feedback for future races.
Interestingly, Tsunoda mentioned that he used to prefer cars with oversteer, similar to the Red Bull, and is looking forward to showing a different aspect of his driving style in the RB21, feeling positive after simulator sessions.
Is Tsunoda Ready for Red Bull?
Bernie Collins from F1 noted Tsunoda`s significant progress in communication and composure since starting in F1, making him more ready for this opportunity.
Regarding his home race prospects, Tsunoda is realistic, not expecting an immediate podium finish. He acknowledges the challenge of adapting to a new car with limited practice time and aims for points and Q3 gradually, focusing on car understanding and feedback for development.
