Yuki Tsunoda is happy with what he showed during the Pirelli testing in Abu Dhabi. The Racing Bulls driver had an opportunity to drive for Red Bull thanks to Honda and he explains that he was particularly effective in terms of his technical feedback.
“I heard a lot about how impressed they were, especially with my technical feedback” said the Japanese. “These came not only from the engineers on the ground, but also from the engineers working remotely from the Red Bull factory in Milton Keynes. They told me how impressed they were with my feedback.
“This area was a key focus for me. I think Red Bull have already understood that my speed is not a problem. Rather, they focus on things like my feedback, my behavior within the team and the way I which I drive myself in the car.”
“They probably saw these areas as the biggest unknowns. With that in mind, I continued to give my opinion as I always have, trying to communicate in the most complete and comprehensive way. as detailed as possible.”
Tsunoda is confident that he was able to show what he is capable of and how far he has progressed in several areas, while helping Red Bull: “They mainly focused on the comments about the car and how I behaved within the team.”
“As I said, I think they already know that I have the speed, but they were curious about my ideas, my way of communicating. The elements that I learned at the start of the season were put to profit during the tests.”
He explains that he was not completely disoriented by going to Red Bull for the Abu Dhabi tests: “Even though the two teams are very different, there are similarities, especially regarding the positive atmosphere. Our team is very Italian, friendly, with a lot of gestures and physical interactions.”
“As for Red Bull, the atmosphere there is very energetic, a bit like a pub. If I had to give an example regarding the engineering process, I would say that Red Bull digs into every comment I make. They don't miss a thing of what I mention and ask very detailed follow-up questions to explore even more details.”
“While they have this energetic image when it comes to engineering and the car, they are incredibly thorough and detail-oriented. In some ways, I think that precision matches the attention to detail often associated with the Japanese.”
“I also felt a strong energy where everyone shared freely and exchanged feedback without hesitation. That's not to say our team doesn't have that, but I think it's an area where both teams differ slightly.”
He explains how much he has evolved in 2024, notably thanks to Daniel Ricciardo: “I learned a lot from Ricciardo, especially things that I hadn't been able to do myself. Competing with him while absorbing those aspects was a great experience.”
“During post-session debriefings, even when things weren't going well, he remained incredibly calm, and I could sense his experience and professionalism. I also learned to better control my emotions while driving and to give car information on the radio more effectively.”
Asked about his chances of going to Red Bull, he admits it's not easy, but doesn't underestimate Racing Bulls: “I think the chances are 50-50. Of course I would be happier if I could drive for Red Bull, but I'm incredibly grateful for all the support I'm getting from everyone in this current situation.”
“Whatever team I'm in, what I have to do remains the same. It's not just about Red Bull. For all we know, Racing Bulls could surpass them in terms of development. This It's not like it absolutely has to be Red Bull.”
“I don't know what will happen, but I just want to perform well and score points. Getting on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream. But to achieve that, I want to help build a better car and a better team one day until that time comes, I hope everyone will be patient.”
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