Tsunoda Disappointed Despite Strong RB F1 Qualifying

Yuki Tsunoda qualified seventh at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, expressing disappointment despite RB F1’s impressive double Q3 performance.

Yuki Tsunoda qualified seventh at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, positioned between the Mercedes drivers. Despite a strong weekend, the RB F1 driver was disappointed not to achieve a better result after posting the third fastest time in Q2.

“To be honest, I expected more from Q3. I didn’t put everything together, so I’m not completely happy. But overall, it was pretty good. It’s the first time I’ve advanced from Q2 with just one set of tires, and it’s been a good weekend, so we’ll try to finish strong,” Tsunoda said.

“Honestly, we didn’t expect this much performance. The team has worked hard to develop the car, it was huge and it paid off. I’m focusing on extracting the maximum performance from the car, and the team atmosphere is good, so we’ll keep going like this.”

Complementing the excellent work of RB F1 just a few kilometers from its Faenza factory, Daniel Ricciardo also reached Q3, starting ninth, two places behind his teammate.

“I’m happy, the team result is very good, both of us reaching Q3. On my side, it was a better session, it’s not enough but we’re making progress. I had a bit more difficulty, Yuki was more comfortable from the start of the weekend,” said Ricciardo, who had hoped for a better lap time.

“I was trying to find a bit of time here and there, but I had a lot of difficulties in the first sector. We made progress, but that’s where the lap got away from me. But we’re working on it, and I’m happy and comfortable.”

Ricciardo praised Tsunoda’s performance and is hopeful for a good race: “We’re in a good position, I’ll see what I can do. But Yuki has been very good all weekend. He has the advantage of being on his home track, he says he tests here every day, I think he’s doing illegal tests! (laughs) He did a great job.”

“We’ve been competitive in the last few races. Yesterday, we were quick on long runs. I wouldn’t say it was incredible, but the track has changed a lot, so we’ll see how it goes tomorrow. But it’s good to be in the top half of the grid and we’ll aim for points.”