Pessimistic Tsunoda Eyes Red Bull Amid Colapinto Surge

Yuki Tsunoda is going through a frustrating period, with multiple errors made in Austin and Mexico.

This may be the worst timing for the Japanese RB F1 driver, as Liam Lawson continues to impress Red Bull’s leaders and appears to have one foot in the top team if Sergio Perez were to be replaced.

Should we talk about a shift in fortune now for Tsunoda?

“I think it’s part of a career, and you have good moments and, of course, there are always bad moments. Yes, the crashes haven’t been helpful from that perspective. I’m trying to minimize distractions and focus on the race. I hope that will bring me some luck. But so far, these haven’t been my best races. But every race is new; I don’t think about previous race weeks. Now, we’re focusing on beating Haas F1 in the championship.”

What are the positives for that, the strengths of the VCARB01 compared to the VF-24?

“We’re clearly more competitive on some circuits. Haas has also gained good pace in qualifying. I don’t know if it’s better or worse, but at least we were on a similar level in Mexico in my view, if we exclude my issues. Of course, I probably shouldn’t miss my qualifying; I didn’t really maximize the opportunity.”

“In terms of the car, Mexico was at least similar. On other tracks, I know we’re maybe a bit behind because I think they’re probably faster on high-speed circuits so far. But yes, we’re hopefully going to develop much better in the upcoming races.”

There is much speculation around Sergio Perez’s future in Formula 1. Christian Horner even stated after Sunday’s race that there comes a time when tough decisions must be made. If he were asked, would he race alongside Max in the same car? Of course, but he doesn’t seem to truly believe it anymore.

“Yes! Definitely, he’s always the driver you want to race alongside. He’s the best driver so far, and he has a lot of skills, and I’d certainly love to learn a lot. But also to complete my own learning. I’d see how it goes if it happens. For now, I’m focused on what I have to do. And so far, I haven’t really been able to achieve what I want, so…”

There are also rumors that Franco Colapinto could join the Red Bull family…

“He’s definitely doing a good job. But, to be honest, I don’t know much about it. I haven’t seen much. He’s an option, obviously, because he’s performing well and doesn’t yet have a seat for next season. And if he’s fast, I think any team that can would consider him as an option.”