Yuki Tsunoda steps into the spotlight as he makes his Red Bull Racing debut at his home race in Suzuka.
- Red Bull granted Tsunoda several simulator sessions following the Chinese Grand Prix, receiving ‘very good’ feedback.
- Helmut Marko confirms Tsunoda’s technical abilities, highlighting his solid feedback in the RB21 simulator.
- Tsunoda’s experience plays a crucial role in his selection over Liam Lawson, who returns to Racing Bulls.
- The Japanese driver eagerly anticipates this move, which aligns with his own expectations.
Yuki Tsunoda is about to make a significant leap in his career by driving for Red Bull Racing at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Tsunoda remarked on how his home race presents the perfect backdrop for his debut. Red Bull, ensuring he is well-prepared, provided him with several simulator sessions after the Chinese Grand Prix. The sessions aimed to acclimate him to the RB21 car’s unique traits and allow him to contribute valuable feedback.
Helmut Marko, a pivotal figure at Red Bull, expressed his satisfaction with Tsunoda’s performance, stating that the feedback from the simulator sessions was ‘very good.’ This endorsement emphasizes the team’s confidence in Tsunoda’s technical skills, an area where he faced criticism in the past. However, Marko made it clear that this issue was laid to rest following Tsunoda’s commendable performance in the simulator.
Marko further elaborated on the rationale behind choosing Tsunoda to replace Liam Lawson. Tsunoda’s extensive experience provides an edge that the team values. Comparatively, Lawson, although talented, will now return to Racing Bulls. Marko praised Tsunoda’s contributions in recent seasons and noted that his technical insights have been particularly ‘solid,’ a noteworthy improvement for the Japanese driver.
There was also speculation regarding whether Tsunoda had any choice in moving to Red Bull. Marko confirmed that contractually, the team can shuffle drivers but emphasized that Tsunoda had anticipated and welcomed this opportunity. Marko’s straightforward confirmation dispels any rumors of reluctance on Tsunoda’s part, who was quietly expecting and preparing for this transition.
Yuki Tsunoda’s anticipated debut for Red Bull Racing marks a new chapter, eagerly awaited amidst the buzz of Suzuka.
