In a recent explosive revelation on Red Bull’s ‘Talking Bull’ podcast, Yuki Tsunoda has thrown the spotlight on his relationship with former teammate Daniel Ricciardo, branding him a “mentor.” This eye-catching description comes as Tsunoda reflects on his diverse array of teammates throughout his Formula 1 journey, from the World Champion Max Verstappen to the impressive rookie Isack Hadjar.
Tsunoda’s time alongside Ricciardo was marked by a season and a half of intense competition at AlphaTauri/RB from 2023 to 2024. Following the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, Ricciardo bid farewell to the Racing Bulls, concluding a storied career that featured eight Grand Prix wins—seven with Red Bull and one during his stint with McLaren. This departure marked a significant turning point for both drivers, with Tsunoda advancing to Red Bull in 2025, closing in on his fifth season in the sport.
During the podcast, Tsunoda was challenged to encapsulate each of his teammates in a single word. Initially, he struggled with Ricciardo, opting for “teacher” before quickly backtracking and settling on “mentor.” This choice highlights Ricciardo’s role as the seasoned veteran within the team, someone who not only competed fiercely but also provided invaluable insights to his less experienced counterpart. Tsunoda acknowledged the wealth of experience Ricciardo brought, stating, “Yes, mentor,” emphasizing the significant impact Ricciardo had during their time together.
The dynamic duo saw Tsunoda learn from Ricciardo’s established techniques and tenacity, crucial experiences that Tsunoda could leverage as he navigated the cutthroat world of F1. Ricciardo’s transition away from racing has seen him evolve into a global ambassador for Ford Racing, but his legacy within the sport continues to resonate through Tsunoda’s eyes.
But the podcast wasn’t just about Ricciardo. Tsunoda also shared his one-word impressions of his other teammates. For his inaugural F1 partner, Pierre Gasly, Tsunoda chose “brother,” reflecting a close-knit bond. The camaraderie continued with rookie Isack Hadjar, whom he affectionately dubbed “bro.” However, when it came to Nyck de Vries, who Ricciardo replaced, Tsunoda found it challenging to sum up their long-standing rivalry succinctly, eventually settling on “old friends.”
And the surprises didn’t stop there! Tsunoda’s current teammate, the formidable Max Verstappen, received a rather unconventional descriptor: “gin tonic.” This unexpected choice stems from Verstappen introducing Tsunoda to the popular beverage, showcasing the lighter side of their relationship amid the high-octane world of F1.
As Tsunoda gears up for the 2026 season, the pressure mounts for him to secure his seat alongside Verstappen at Red Bull. With his career trajectory intertwined with the legacy of iconic teammates like Ricciardo, Tsunoda’s journey is one that fans and pundits alike are keenly watching.
Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the F1 paddock, as Tsunoda and his fellow racers continue to push the limits of speed, skill, and camaraderie on the grand stage of Formula 1!
