Yuki, the home star
Yuki Tsunoda couldn’t have imagined a better scenario at the end of last season: after just two Grands Prix, Red Bull reversed its decision and gave him a seat in the garage next to Max Verstappen, after rejecting Liam Lawson.
Yuki Tsunoda’s debut at the wheel of a Red Bull will take place at his home race in Japan, making it natural that the 24-year-old from Sagamihara will receive strong support from his fans.
Yuki Tsunoda speaks
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Yuki Tsunoda shared the behind-the-scenes details of his arrival at the team, focusing on the requests made by Team Principal Christian Horner: “Red Bull is focused on making Max win the drivers’ championship. He has shown the potential to win, even though Red Bull seems to be struggling a bit at the moment.”
However, Yuki Tsunoda has received reassurances from the team regarding his role: “In terms of performance, Christian Horner asked me to be as close to Max as possible. In some races, I might be able to help with strategy, but he promised me that in certain situations, if I am ahead of Max, I won’t necessarily be asked to swap positions to let him win.”
The relationship with Max and Liam
Yuki Tsunoda is not concerned about Max Verstappen’s Instagram ‘like’ in support of Liam Lawson: “I’ve already said this some time ago, but his behavior in the car and outside is a bit different. I’m not worried about our relationship. I know what I want to do, and I probably also know how he drives and what he thinks.”
As for Liam Lawson, there has been no contact yet: “We haven’t spoken yet; we’ll probably do so during some event in Tokyo. I hope our friendship won’t be ruined.”
Closing with his expectations for the home race in Suzuka, Yuki Tsunoda concluded: “It’s going to be quite tough, but if I manage to score points and finish in the top 10, I’ll be happy.”
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