Yuki Tsunoda’s Struggle: A Costly Misstep in the Japanese Grand Prix
Japanese sensation Yuki Tsunoda’s dreams turned into a nightmare as he made a crucial setup error during the Japanese Grand Prix, leaving the second RB21 car point-less for the third consecutive race. Tsunoda, who took over from Liam Lawson, finished a disappointing P12 in his Red Bull debut, failing to secure any points for the team.
In a race where rain was expected but never arrived, Tsunoda’s decision to set up his car for wet conditions backfired, leading to a challenging performance on the dry track. Despite showing promise by advancing out of Q1, Tsunoda struggled in qualifying and failed to make a significant impact during the race.
Expressing his frustration, Tsunoda mentioned, “I feel very frustrated and disappointed not to score points, but it is what it is. Next time when I come to my home Grand Prix, I’ll be in a better shape, and hopefully I can aim for more than a top five.” The young driver acknowledged the difficulties he faced due to the setup choice but remained optimistic about his performance in the upcoming races.
Furthermore, Tsunoda revealed that he opted for a wet setup and ran lower downforce compared to his teammate Max Verstappen, impacting his speed and stability on the track. Despite considering a change in setup after practice sessions, Tsunoda stuck with his initial configuration, which proved to be suboptimal for the race conditions.
Reflecting on the differences between the Red Bull car and his previous vehicle, Tsunoda highlighted the challenges in operating the tires effectively. He identified areas for improvement and expressed confidence in his ability to enhance his performance in the future races.
As Tsunoda continues to adapt to his new team and car, his experience in the Japanese Grand Prix serves as a valuable lesson in the competitive world of Formula 1. With determination and a drive to succeed, Tsunoda aims to overcome setbacks and make a stronger impact in the upcoming races, showcasing his potential as a rising star in the sport.