Yuki Tsunoda believes he has made a strong impression on Red Bull Racing last week in Abu Dhabi during Formula 1’s post-season test at Yas Marina.
The Japanese driver is being considered, along with RB teammate Liam Lawson, for a potential promotion to the senior team in 2025 as Sergio Perez’s replacement.
Red Bull’s top brass came together after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to address the Mexican driver’s fate but so far, no news has filtered on the identity of Max Verstappen’s teammate for 2025. But a final call is expected to be made any day now.
However, speaking last weekend at Honda Racing’s 2024 Season Finale fan appreciation event in Tokyo, Tsunoda shared his insights on his recent test with Red Bull Racing, revealing that his technical feedback – a longstanding concern for Red Bull – had earned him praise from the team’s engineers.
“I heard a lot about how impressed they were, particularly with my feedback,” Tsunoda claimed.
“This came not only from the trackside engineers but also from the engineers supporting remotely from Red Bull’s factory in Milton Keynes. They mentioned how impressed they were with my input.
“That area was a key target for me. I believe Red Bull already understands that my speed isn’t much of an issue.
“Instead, what they’re more focused on is things like my feedback, my behaviour within the team, and how I conduct myself in the car. They probably saw those areas as the biggest unknowns.
“So while keeping that in mind, I continued to provide feedback as I always have, aiming to communicate as thoroughly and with as much detail as possible.”
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Reflecting on his day with Red Bull, Tsunoda noted key differences in the team’s approach to engineering compared to sister outfit Visa Cash App RB.
“Even though the two teams are quite different, there are some similarities, particularly in the positive atmosphere,” he said.
“Our team feels very Italian – friendly with lots of physical gestures and interactions. Meanwhile, Red Bull also has a very energetic vibe, almost like being in a pub.”
The standout difference, Tsunoda explained, was Red Bull’s rigorous approach to technical discussions.
“If I were to give one example regarding the engineering process, Red Bull digs deeper into every comment I make,” he said.
“They don’t miss anything I mention, asking very detailed follow-up questions to explore even more specifics.
“While they have this energetic image, when it comes to engineering and the car, they’re incredibly thorough and detail-oriented. In a way, I think this precision aligns with the attention to detail often associated with Japanese people.”
Tsunoda also highlighted the collaborative environment within Red Bull’s team culture.
“I also felt a strong energy where everyone freely shares and exchanges comments without hesitation. That’s not to say our team [RB] doesn’t have that, but I think it’s an area where the two teams differ slightly.”
Despite his impressive showing according to his own assessment, Tsunoda acknowledged that he is not the favorite to secure the Red Bull seat for 2025, with Lawson believed to be the leading candidate if Perez is replaced.
However, Tsunoda remains hopeful and focused on his own performance.
“I think the chances are 50-50. Of course, I’d be happiest if I could drive for Red Bull, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’m receiving from everyone in this current situation,” he explained.
“Regardless of which team I’m with, what I need to do remains the same. It’s not just about Red Bull. For all we know, VCARB might surpass them in development. It’s not like it absolutely has to be Red Bull.”
Looking ahead, Tsunoda expressed his dream of standing on the podium at Suzuka, but he also acknowledged the importance of patience and continued effort.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I just want to perform well and score points. Standing on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream. But, to achieve that, I want to help build a better car and a better team someday.
“Until that time comes, I hope everyone can be patient.”
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