Yuki Tsunoda feels that he is now a “more complete” driver and ready to fight at the sharp end of the grid with a top team in F1.
Tsunoda graduated to Formula 1 with AlphaTauri in 2021, just aged 19. While his raw talent has never been in question, consistency and emotional control quickly emerged as areas that required a lot of improvement.
Recognizing his need for steadier performances and an ability to keep his emotions in check in the heat of the moment, the Japanese charger worked diligently to improve both crucial aspects of his driving.
Tsunoda has acknowledged the strides he’s made in becoming a more well-rounded competitor.
"I feel I'm a more complete driver,” the Visa Cash App RB driver told Motorsport.com.
"When I look from an outside perspective, previously, even [though] my one lap or performance or my driving was okay, I think the radio communications, emotional control was lacking quite a lot - a big step when I compare to Daniel, for example.”
The 24-year-old now understands that to succeed at the highest level, particularly in a top team like Red Bull, a driver must be more than just fast.
"If you want to go to a top team, those things will be very important because top teams are expecting a more complete driver,” he added.
Tsunoda’s progress has been evident this season, with his improved performance turning him into a key asset for RB, the bulls’ sister outfit.
His speed and consistency, particularly alongside the more inconsistent Daniel Ricciardo, have earned him high praise within the team. Tsunoda believes that his efforts to become a more controlled and consistent driver have paid off.
"So I wanted to improve those things and to be a more complete driver so that no one can complain about the specific things and now I feel ready, the last couple of races I was able to achieve those things."
"I believe in myself and I am finding more control, more consistency. I'm very happy that I am able to hit the target every time. This is what I have to do, just focus on that rather than having to focus on rumours or whatever."
©RB
Despite this progress, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner remains unconvinced that Tsunoda is ready to handle the immense pressure of racing alongside world champion Max Verstappen.
While Tsunoda has not yet been seriously considered as a replacement for Sergio Perez, he remains determined to prove his worth.
Despite his struggles, the Mexican driver appears in a safe spot at Red Bull, at least until the end of the season. But so far there has been no indication that he’ll be racing with the championship winning squad in 2025, which leaves the door partially open for Tsunoda.
"They know my performance and they are happy with my performance," he insisted.
"That's why they extended my contract for next year, so it's pretty clear. I just have to keep performing, keep making them happy consistently and, hopefully, things will come naturally.
"I just keep focused on what I can do but obviously, I'm feeling ready to fight against higher positions and teams, and also fight against Max. But they have to decide."
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