Yuki Tsunoda believes his technical feedback impressed Red Bull, though his future with the team remains unclear heading into 2025.
Yuki Tsunoda is pleased with what he demonstrated during the Pirelli tests in Abu Dhabi. The Racing Bulls driver had the opportunity to drive for Red Bull thanks to Honda, and he explained that he was particularly effective in his technical feedback.
“I heard a lot about how impressed they were, especially with my technical feedback,” said the Japanese driver. “This came not only from the engineers on site but also from those working remotely at Red Bull’s Milton Keynes factory. They told me how impressed they were with my comments.
“This area was a key objective for me. I think Red Bull already knows that my speed is not an issue. They are more focused on things like my feedback, my behavior within the team, and how I conduct myself in the car.”
“They probably considered these areas the biggest unknowns. Keeping that in mind, I continued to give my feedback as I always have, trying to communicate as comprehensively and as thoroughly as possible.”
Tsunoda is confident he was able to show what he is capable of and how much he has improved in several areas while helping Red Bull: “They were mainly focused on the feedback regarding the car and how I behaved within the team.”
“As I said, I think they already know I have the speed, but they were curious about my insights and how I communicate. The elements I learned at the start of the season were put to good use during the tests.”
He explained that he did not feel completely out of place when joining Red Bull for the Abu Dhabi tests: “Even though the two teams are very different, there are similarities, particularly in terms of the positive atmosphere. Our team is very Italian, friendly, with lots of gestures and physical interactions.”
“As for Red Bull, the atmosphere is very energetic, a bit like being in a pub. If I had to give an example regarding the engineering process, I would say that Red Bull delves deeply into every comment I make. They miss nothing of what I mention and ask very detailed follow-up questions to explore even more specifics.”
“Although they have this energetic image, when it comes to engineering and the car, they are incredibly meticulous and detail-oriented. In a way, I think this precision aligns with the attention to detail often associated with the Japanese.”
“I also felt a strong energy where everyone shares openly and exchanges feedback without hesitation. That doesn’t mean our team lacks this, but I think it’s an area where the two teams differ slightly.”
He explained how much he has developed in 2024, particularly thanks to Daniel Ricciardo: “I’ve learned a lot from Ricciardo, especially things I hadn’t been able to do on my own. Competing with him while absorbing those aspects has been a fantastic experience.”
“During post-session debriefings, even when things didn’t go well, he remained incredibly calm, and I could feel his experience and professionalism. I’ve also learned to better control my emotions while driving and to provide car feedback on the radio more effectively.”
Asked about his chances of joining Red Bull, he admits it’s not simple but does not underestimate Racing Bulls: “I think the chances are 50-50. Of course, I would be happier if I could drive for Red Bull, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’m receiving from everyone in this current situation.”
“Regardless of the team I’m in, what I have to do remains the same. It’s not just about Red Bull. For all we know, Racing Bulls could surpass them in terms of development. It’s not as though it absolutely has to be Red Bull.”
“I don’t know what will happen, but I just want to perform and score points. Standing on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream. But to get there, I want to help build a better car and a better team one day. Until that moment comes, I hope everyone will be patient.”
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Tsunoda – But Red Bull Future Still Uncertain Tsunoda – But Red Bull Future Still Uncertain
