Ricciardo's Baku Setback: Fails in Qualifying's Q1

Tsunoda finds solace in technical gains despite a modest 12th, while Ricciardo struggles in Baku’s Q1.

Yuki Tsunoda managed to secure 12th place in Q2 for RB F1 during the qualifying rounds in Azerbaijan.

On paper, this seemed like a promising result for the team, but the Japanese driver had aspirations for higher placements!

“It’s frustrating to bow out in Q2. This wasn’t what we expected in terms of performance.”

“We lacked pace, and it was quite challenging to properly pilot our F1, but we gave it our all.”

“Tire degradation appears more problematic than usual compared to previous years, so it looks like tire management will be crucial tomorrow. The new floor is definitely working here as opposed to Monza; it’s completely different; the team has done an excellent job analyzing the data. Other tracks might tell a different story, but the upcoming ones are similar to this one, so I’m looking forward to it.”

“We will continue to focus on performance, but we’ll remain calm and do what we can tomorrow.”

Daniel Ricciardo, meanwhile, was eliminated in Q1, finishing in 16th position.

“Qualifying was tight today. I went a bit too deep into turn 4, which compromised my exit, so there was time left on the table. Otherwise, the lap didn’t seem too bad, and I was surprised that we were knocked out in Q1.”

“It was very close on a single lap among everyone, which is unusual for such a long lap on a street circuit. Any exit in Q1 is frustrating, but the margins are so small here. However, overtaking is possible on this track. Even watching the F2 race today, there were opportunities, which gives us optimism. We will try to regroup for tomorrow; it’s a race where things can be shaken up.”