Yuki Tsunoda Shines in First Practice Session at Japanese Grand Prix
A Promising Start for the Japanese Driver
Yuki Tsunoda, the new recruit of Red Bull, has made a strong impression in the first practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix. The 24-year-old driver, who replaced Liam Lawson last week, steered the tricky RB21 to the sixth fastest time, just a tenth of a second behind his world champion teammate Max Verstappen.
Confidence Boost
Tsunoda expressed his confidence in the car, stating that "it is okay and I am happy to have confidence in the car." He also mentioned that he gained a lot more learnings in the first practice session, which he was unable to back up in the second session due to the four red flags that halted the session.
Maturity and Improvement
Tsunoda’s performance came as no surprise to Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies, who has witnessed the driver’s growth and maturity over the past year. Mekies praised Tsunoda’s technical feedback, saying that he has made an incredible step in the last 12 months, converting his improvement into speed.
A Game-Changer for Formula One in Japan
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu believes that having Tsunoda in one of the leading teams could be a game-changer for the sport in Japan. Japan has a rich history in Formula One, but none of the 18 Japanese drivers who have competed in the championship have ever won a race. Komatsu sees Tsunoda’s achievement as a huge story that is gaining momentum, and expects it to bring back interest in the sport.
Conclusion
Yuki Tsunoda’s performance in the first practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix has been a promising sign for the Japanese driver and the sport as a whole. With his maturity and improvement, he is sure to be a force to be reckoned with in the coming races.
FAQs
Q: What was Yuki Tsunoda’s fastest time in the first practice session?
A: Tsunoda recorded the sixth fastest time, just a tenth of a second behind his teammate Max Verstappen.
Q: How many red flags halted the second practice session?
A: Four red flags halted the second practice session, preventing Tsunoda from setting a lap time.
Q: What is Yuki Tsunoda’s experience in Formula One?
A: Tsunoda has been racing in Formula One for two seasons, having joined Racing Bulls last year.
Q: Has Yuki Tsunoda won a race in Formula One?
A: No, Tsunoda has not yet won a race in Formula One.