Yuki Tsunoda takes the wheel of AlphaTauri
For the first time, Yuki Tsunoda took the wheel of the AlphaTauri during a test session in Imola. An essential step to claim a full-time seat next year.
Three days after the Imola Grand Prix, AlphaTauri stayed on site for a private test session granted to Yuki Tsunoda. This step is necessary in the process of acquiring the Super License, an essential requirement to qualify for a full-time seat in F1.
That’s why the Japanese driver covered the regulatory 300 kilometers during his first attempt behind the wheel of an F1 single-seater: « It was easier than I expected in terms of driving. On the other hand, it was more difficult from a physical standpoint, especially concerning the neck. Usually, I have a rather strong neck and I don’t suffer. But here I can feel the difference compared to F2! » he commented during a press conference at the end of the day.
The F2 driver’s day was eventful as he made his first outing on a wet track before being able to drive on a dry one. He was thus struck by the differences in power and braking, especially on the dry track, compared to what he has experienced so far. He is considering the possibility of participating in the Friday morning practice session in Bahrain: « If I do FP1 in Bahrain, it will be a big challenge to readapt to the F2 afterwards. »
But like all drivers, before taking the wheel in real life, he had multiple opportunities to prepare in the Red Bull simulator in Milton Keynes and during his visit to Faenza for his seat fitting: « It’s easy to memorize all the buttons on the steering wheel, but it’s more difficult to react quickly when the engineer asks you to change mode over the radio. »
One more step remains to be taken now: finishing in the top 5 of the F2 championship. Before the last weekend in Bahrain, he is in a good position as he holds third place but with only a seven-point lead over the Russian duo Robert Schwartzman-Nikita Mazepin. But nothing to add pressure to the young Honda protégé: « The goal has always been the same since the beginning of the year. I have been mentally ready for this since January. So no, it doesn’t add pressure to me. »
If the championship final were to go poorly, it would put Red Bull in a difficult position because Yuki Tsunoda is by far the favorite to be Pierre Gasly’s teammate next year. But without a Super License, no seat…
