Yuki Tsunoda’s growth in Formula 1 has been shaped by critical advice from the Red Bull team and the influence of a seasoned driver.
- Red Bull’s Christian Horner and Helmut Marko urged Tsunoda to manage his emotions better, citing his fiery radio communications.
- The Japanese driver has shown significant improvement in the 2024 season, outperforming his more experienced teammate in points.
- Daniel Ricciardo’s communication skills on team radio served as a model for Tsunoda’s transformation.
- Despite his progress, Tsunoda remains overlooked for a main Red Bull team spot, prompting career advice from former champion Damon Hill.
Yuki Tsunoda has been making waves in the 2024 Formula 1 season, not only because of his performance but due to a significant shift in his demeanor. Christian Horner and Helmut Marko from Red Bull have been instrumental in this change, urging Tsunoda to calm his fiery outbursts during team radio communications. This advice came after numerous occasions where his passionate reactions were heavily noted, including an incident during the 2024 season opener in Bahrain.
Tsunoda recalls how the moment served as an eye-opener, further reinforced by Marko and Horner’s frank discussions on his need to focus on feedback and become a well-rounded driver. Observing Daniel Ricciardo has greatly aided in this transformation. The Australian driver’s composed and efficient radio communication became a guiding example for Tsunoda. “Daniel is very, very good at that kind of thing,” Tsunoda noted, highlighting how emulating Ricciardo has positively impacted his performance.
Despite this notable improvement in controlling his tempers and raising his game, the young Japanese driver faces a tough climb to the main Red Bull team. Even with Sergio Perez facing challenges, Tsunoda has not emerged as the frontrunner for a promotion. Instead, Ricciardo and Red Bull’s reserve driver, Liam Lawson, are considered prime candidates to step into Perez’s shoes.
Adding to the complexity of his career trajectory, former World Champion Damon Hill advised Tsunoda to consider other opportunities. With Aston Martin set to adopt Honda engines by 2026, Hill suggested Tsunoda could benefit from reaching out, considering his long-standing association with Honda. Hill pointed out, “If I was him, I would be on the phone to Aston Martin now.” This advice stems from seeing Max Verstappen and Ricciardo’s close camaraderie, further fueled by their happy moments shared publicly, which might influence team decisions.
Yuki Tsunoda’s journey of self-improvement showcases the highs and lows of Formula 1, revealing the constant drive for growth amid team politics.
