Yuki Tsunoda has revealed he was almost denied entry to the United States by border control ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The RB F1 driver explained that he had “almost got sent home” by customs officials, even though he had already raced twice in the country this season, in Miami and Austin.
Border control in the United States is known to be strict, but the Japanese pilot did not explain why he was questioned.
“Luckily, they let me in after some discussion. Actually, a lot of discussion. But yeah, I almost got sent home. It's all good, so I'm here now.”
“I was detained for two or three hours, which seemed a bit strange given my frequent travel to the country and the fact that I have a valid visa.”
The driver returned to the United States earlier than expected, participating in promotional activities with Max Verstappen, where he had the opportunity to drive an IndyCar.
“It's not the first time we've been here this year. I've heard a lot of things, but I hope everything goes well in the future – and without problems.”
Tsunoda explained that he was not traveling with the team, but only with his physiotherapist. This made it difficult for him to get the support he needed in the midst of the situation to prove who he was.
“There was my physiotherapist who I travel with, but when you go through customs you go individually. The border control agent put me in a room and we had a conversation.”
The RB F1 driver confirmed he had asked if he could be accompanied to help explain the situation, but was not allowed.
“Maybe he can help me explain a little more about myself and the fact that I'm a Formula 1 driver. But they didn't allow me. They didn't allow me to bring that friend – or even call someone.”
“I also wanted to call the team or Formula 1, maybe this person can help me, but in this room we can't do anything.”
When asked if this was a case where border control didn't believe he was an F1 driver, he replied: “Maybe. I was wearing sweatpants, so maybe I didn't look like an F1 driver.”
“I'm sure the customs officer knew that. While talking, he even asked me what the salary was and everything.”
“It’s uncomfortable, I feel like the things they’ve put pressure on me about are so much that I can’t say anything.”
“If I say something, I feel like I'm in more trouble. I hope everything gets sorted out. Luckily, everything worked out in the end.”
