Tsunoda, new leader of AlphaTauri? “Only time will tell” says Gasly

Pierre Gasly et Yuki tsunoda : a duo that has become almost inseparable as the two drivers are friends on and off the paddocks. During the two seasons spent together at Alpha Tauri, the French and the Japanese have established a strong relationship. On the track, no bickering with a well-established hierarchy: Gasly had the role of leader, Tsunoda had the role of number two. The departure of the Norman Alpine will, therefore, modify this balance within the Faenza team.

With the arrival of Nyck de Vries, older than Yuki Tsunoda but inexperienced in Formula 1, the native of Kanagawa will have to take responsibility for leading AlphaTauri in 2023. Pierre Gasly is not worried about his friend's adaptation as team leader. “I think only time will tell, but he's definitely improved tremendously this year. I wouldn't be surprised to see him improve further next season, believes the Frenchman. I think he knows what he needs to work on: a little self-control. He knows it, and he has good people around him. This environment is also good for him to really develop as a better driver. »

“With Yuki Tsunoda, there are never any problems” recognizes Gasly

If the two drivers will part ways within the Italian team, Pierre Gasly affirms that he will remain very close with his now ex-teammate. The new pilot Alpine recognizes that he will miss the character that Yuki Tsunoda can be in the garage. “With Yuki [Tsunoda], there are never any arguments (sic) and that’s something I really appreciate, confided the only winner in the recent history of AlphaTauri. Everything that comes to mind comes out of his mouth in a flash. He's a very unique character, he has a great sense of humor, without filter, which can be quite surprising sometimes, but he's a great human being. I really enjoyed the last two years watching him develop within the team. As a person, I think he's developed a lot – he's someone I like. He's a real friend now. »

Yuki Tsunoda, who will begin his third F3 campaign at AlphaTauri – often synonymous with a last-chance season at Faenza – will have to demonstrate that he has the ability to lead. If Nyck de Vries takes over, his future in the premier category could be compromised since the Japanese will reach the end of his contract at the end of the 1 season... 

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