Tsunoda, a changed pilot? “I am more relaxed during a week of racing”

Yuki tsunoda has he calmed down since the start of his career, in 2021? A fiery driver, impetuous during his first Grands Prix, the Japanese with a strong character has calmed his temper in recent months. An appeasement which seemed necessary for the pilot Alpha Tauri retains its place in F1, a place he obtained this Thursday with a contract extension for 2023. Moments after the Italian team's announcement, Yuki Tsunoda spoke on the Italian team's podcast Tauri Talk. The young 22-year-old driver spoke in particular about the main changes in his preparation since his arrival in Formula 1.

“If I show you my belly or my stomach, I think it will be easy to see the difference!, jokes Yuki Tsunoda. “Most of the differences have been physical I would say, very little in driving. Around driving, it's the way I have to approach things, the mental side where I have improved. I am more in control, more relaxed during a week of racing. » Less virulent on the radio, the Japanese is calmer on and off the track. If his performances are not really there – 11 units registered in 16 Grands Prix, no points scored since the Spanish Grand Prix in May – Yuki Tsunoda has moved closer to his teammate Pierre Gasly in terms of rhythm.

The experience gained in each race helps the Japanese driver, who arrived in Formula 1 after a rapid rise and only one season of Formula 2. “I know how to handle most situations because last year I experienced it, admits the Kanagawa pilot. I definitely have a little more advantage compared to last year going into race week. It makes a difference. » 

Tsunoda wants to establish himself at AlphaTauri

Always disdainful of physical preparation, Yuki Tsunoda has become accustomed to the rigor of the sport and considers it useful in increasing his performance on the track. “The preparation I did [for 2022] was a lot more than last year, and I definitely felt the benefits. However, I hate it, but at the same time I know that I can have a good performance in the race thanks to it, so I continue. »

In 2023, which will mark Tsunoda's 3rd season at AlphaTauri, the Japanese will be put under pressure by Red Bull. The results and behavior will be scrutinized very closely, he who could become the leader of the team in the event of the departure of Pierre Gasly at Alpine. “I have good confidence from last year, so I guess I'll stick with my performances. I focused on helping the team. The goal is still the same for the rest of the season, so looking forward I have better confidence after this contract announcement. »

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