Yuki Tsunoda voted Driver of the Day in Japan
The Japanese Grand Prix marked a significant milestone in the career of Yuki Tsunoda, who took part in his first race with the Red Bull team on the Suzuka circuit and had the honour of being voted Driver of the Day on Sunday.
After four seasons with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, Yuki Tsunoda has been promoted to the main team, a recognition of his consistent performances and growing potential. He was voted driver of the day this Sunday morning, French time, at his home circuit in Suzuka!
During the Japanese Grand Prix qualifying, the Japanese driver showed promising signs in Q1, getting within less than a tenth of a second of his teammate Max Verstappen, the reigning world champion. However, a mistake in the first corner of Q2 compromised his chances of reaching Q3, relegating him to 14th place on the starting grid. Despite this disappointment, team director Christian Horner highlighted the competitiveness of his driver and his potential to progress during the race.
The 24-year-old driver made a strong start, gaining several positions in the opening laps. However, difficulties related to tire management and race pace prevented him from staying in the points. He eventually crossed the checkered flag in 12th position. Although this result is below expectations, it reflects the inherent challenges of adapting to a new car and a new team.
I was always on someone’s tail! It wasn’t a pleasant view. At least, I gave it my all. Those 52 laps were important for me to learn from this car. With each lap, I was learning, and I’m optimistic for the next one. But it’s my home race, it’s only once a year! The result is still difficult, he declared at the end of the race.
Driver of the Day ranking
Yuki Tsunoda – 23.7%
Max Verstappen – 19.7%
Kimi Antonelli – 13.6%
Oscar Piastri – 7.9%
Isack Hadjar – 7%
