In a remarkable turn of events, Yuki Tsunoda, who believed his opportunity for a Red Bull promotion had vanished, has been called up to join the senior team for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, alongside world champion Max Verstappen. Less than four months ago, Tsunoda was overlooked in favor of Liam Lawson, despite his extensive experience with Red Bull’s junior team. Now, he embraces this unexpected chance with openness and determination, ready to prove himself on the international stage.
Yuki Tsunoda’s journey to Red Bull is a testament to perseverance. At a Red Bull demonstration event in Tokyo, Tsunoda expressed his initial doubts about landing a spot after his post-season test in Abu Dhabi, admitting, “To be honest, yeah,” he thought his chance was over. For four years, Tsunoda honed his skills with Red Bull’s junior team, and despite being a reserve driver, he had begun to feel his future with the senior team slipping away. Yet, with Lawson’s struggles in the early races, Red Bull saw potential in Tsunoda.
His unexpected elevation comes at a pivotal moment. Yuki Tsunoda will drive the RB21 under the wing of Honda, Red Bull’s engine partner, for their final home race together. Understanding the magnitude of the opportunity, Tsunoda shared, “I love this challenge” and “I love adventure.” The stakes are high, as Tsunoda steps into what team principal Christian Horner calls the “hardest seat in F1.”
Entering such an esteemed position does not come without challenges. Tsunoda acknowledges the daunting nature of the task, racing against experienced competitors and facing the greatest driver, Max Verstappen. “It’s a bit unknown until I hit the track with him,” admitted Tsunoda, yet he plans to build on his five years of experience with Red Bull to adapt quickly and perform remarkably.
Tsunoda sympathizes with Lawson, a fellow racer he competed against in 2023-2024. Acknowledging the harsh realities of the sport, he stated, “F1 is a ‘tough business’.” Still, he remains hopeful for Lawson’s future, appreciating the support from Red Bull’s team, which could spur his comeback. “I’m sure he’ll bounce back very strongly,” Tsunoda added, aiming for all four Red Bull cars to contend in the top ten, benefitting the brand immensely.
Team principal Horner emphasized Tsunoda’s experience and the opportunity it offers for development. Despite Red Bull’s car challenges that even Verstappen faced, Horner believes that Tsunoda’s insights can guide improvements. “For him, it’s a tall order jumping straight into the car,” Horner mentioned, recognizing Tsunoda’s familiarity with Suzuka as an advantage in what promises to be a pivotal contribution to Red Bull’s season.
The Suzuka Circuit’s practice sessions will mark Tsunoda’s initial real-life experience with the RB21. Preparing in the team’s simulator, Tsunoda knows he must swiftly acclimate, despite having no pre-season run in this car. His targets remain, echoing those set for Lawson: keep pace with Verstappen and support Red Bull’s quest for the Constructors’ Championship.
“That’s fair,” said Tsunoda, recognizing the difficulty but prepared to exert his best effort. His optimism was echoed by Bernie Collins from Sky Sports F1, who noticed Tsunoda’s progression and maturity, citing a calmer demeanor as key to not holding Red Bull back anymore. With three promising practice sessions anticipated at Suzuka, the hope is high for Tsunoda’s performance.
As the Grand Prix approaches, Tsunoda manages expectations. Regarding podium prospects, he candidly stated, “Not really thinking about [the] podium.” Acknowledging the challenges of adapting to the new car quickly, Tsunoda prioritizes understanding the car and generating constructive feedback for its development. Each step forward represents progress, with scoring points seen as a pivotal accomplishment at Suzuka.
Tsunoda’s past preference for oversteering cars aligns well with his new Red Bull machine. “At least in the simulator so far I feel good,” he said, expressing hope for unveiling a “different side” of his racing persona with the RB21. As Formula 1 turns its focus to the iconic Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix, enthusiasm builds around Yuki Tsunoda’s thrilling new journey with Red Bull, unfolding in front of his home crowd.
