Yuki Tsunoda’s crash in Imola has put Red Bull in a tight spot, as it’s the first of a series of three back-to-back races.
- The crash severely damaged Tsunoda’s car, setting back Red Bull’s spare parts situation significantly.
- Tsunoda, attempting to be a hero during qualifying, lost control and ended with a dramatic barrel roll.
- Despite the crash, Tsunoda emerged unharmed and appreciated the team’s support amid the pressure.
- Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko is concerned about future races, especially given upcoming challenges in Monte Carlo.
Yuki Tsunoda’s mishap at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix has placed Red Bull in a precarious position. Attempting to make a bold move in qualifying, Tsunoda’s car spun out at Turn 6 and ended up in a flashy barrel roll. Although he walked away without a scratch, the damage to the RB21 was extensive, leaving the mechanics with a herculean task to prepare for the next day.
Red Bull’s spare parts situation has hit a snag due to the crash. With races lined up back-to-back, starting with Monte Carlo, the pressure is mounting. Helmut Marko, the team’s motorsport advisor, expressed relief that Tsunoda was unharmed but highlighted the criticality of the situation, noting that they can’t afford more slip-ups.
Tsunoda admitted he was aiming too much in the first qualifying session, reflecting on his unnecessary show of bravado. “I was just very ashamed, disappointed,” he confessed, emphasizing the intense burden his actions placed on the hardworking mechanics. Still, he was grateful for Red Bull’s support, acknowledging the team’s efforts to alleviate the pressure on him.
For the upcoming race, Tsunoda might have to start from the pit lane, while his teammate, Max Verstappen, managed to clinch the second spot on the grid. Red Bull hopes this race will break the streak of near misses for Verstappen when starting alongside a McLaren, as he hasn’t secured a win in these past encounters.
Marko remains hopeful but realistic about the challenges Red Bull faces. With overtaking being particularly tough on this track, strategy will be key. “You just have to see if you can maybe win something at the start or otherwise through strategy,” he noted, underlining the importance of clever maneuvering.
Red Bull must navigate these challenges carefully to maintain their competitive edge in the upcoming races.
