Yuki Tsunoda’s debut race for Red Bull Racing at the Japanese GP 2025 was a much-awaited run for both Red Bull and him and even for the fans at the Suzuka Circuit since it was his homecoming race. However, he delivered an underwhelming performance and finished in 12th place.
Yuki Tsunoda replaced Liam Lawson after his disappointing performance in the previous two races. Lawson failed to secure points and struggled in qualifying, leading to the decision. Tsunoda earlier acknowledged the immense pressure of debuting for Red Bull on home soil but expressed his determination to adapt quickly to the RB21 car. He found himself in the simulator for two days to adapt and found the car manageable. But as the only Japanese driver on the grid, he faces intense pressure from fans and media.
He opened up about his experience and said, “I think in Qualifying, I just have to do a bit better. I think the pace was there, I was just stuck in traffic all around. It was pretty frustrating, but at the same time, I feel like I’ve learned a lot of things in the 53 laps. I learned more than anything, so I’m positive about that. I’m excited for the next one, but at the same time, it’s a home Grand Prix. It’s once in a year, so it was a bit tough.”
Red Bull Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko On Yuki Tsunoda’s Performance
Red Bull Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko said about his performance, “It was good. It was just unlucky that in Qualifying 2, he had this mistake. But otherwise, it was fine. He didn’t make a mistake, drive absolutely at the limit, only he can do that. He always controlled the distance, masterfully! We are far from giving up”
While Yuki Tsunoda had tested for older Red Bull cars previously, this was his first competitive outing in the RB21. Now, he looks forward to improving his position at the Bahrain Grand Prix next week. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson, who he replaced, finished in 17th place for the Racing Bulls.
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