Tsunoda says Red Bull was 'impressed' with Abu Dhabi test

Yuki tsunoda tries to sell itself as much as possible and the Japanese does not skimp on self-congratulation. The end of the year is approaching and the decision to Red Bull regarding the identity of its second driver too. Sergio Perez, Liam Lawson and therefore Yuki Tsunoda are the three drivers competing to get the second seat alongside Max Verstappen. The Japanese driver has the advantage of having been the last of the three to drive the RB20, last Tuesday during the post-season tests organized in Abu Dhabi. A studious test, with 127 laps in the bank, but above all a golden opportunity for the Racing Bulls driver to show his worth, on and off the track.

“I heard a lot about how impressed they were, especially with my feedback, said Yuki Tsunoda at the Honda Racing 2024 Season Finale, bringing together and celebrating Honda riders across all categories. This came not only from engineers on the ground, but also from engineers working remotely from the Red Bull factory in Milton Keynes. They told me how impressed they were with my contribution. It was a key goal for me.”

"I think Red Bull have already understood that my speed is not a problem. They are more focused on things like my feedback, my behaviour within the team and the way I conduct myself in the car., he added. They probably viewed these areas as the biggest unknowns. With that in mind, I continued to provide feedback as I always have, trying to communicate as fully and in detail as possible.”

Tsunoda dreams of a podium at Suzuka

In Abu Dhabi, the trend for the choice of the second driver at Red Bull leaned more towards Liam Lawson, who would replace Sergio Pérez. Yuki Tsunoda would remain at Racing Bulls, still as leader of the Italian team, and could be joined by Isack Hadjar next year. However, the Japanese driver still wants to believe in his chances and hopes that the good feeling felt with Red Bull during the post-season tests will tip the balance in his favor.

“I think the chances are 50-50. Of course, I would be happier if I could drive for Red Bull, but I am incredibly grateful for all the support I am getting from everyone in this current situation, recognized the 24-year-old driver, protégé of Red Bull and Honda. No matter what team I end up in, what I have to do is the same. It’s not just about Red Bull. For all we know, Racing Bulls could surpass them in terms of development! I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I just want to perform and score points. Getting 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.”

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