Tsunoda faces major challenge as Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull

Ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, Yuki Tsunoda will begin a new chapter in his career with Red Bull Racing wearing a special white livery — facing a challenge that has defeated many drivers before him.

Red Bull Racing has struggled with their second driver since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure seven years ago. Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez, and Liam Lawson — all found it difficult to handle a car designed specifically for Max Verstappen’s driving style.

An interesting observation emerged in the Chinese GP paddock — why not use the Racing Bulls car that Verstappen claimed is “easier to drive” for Red Bull’s second driver? However, modern F1 regulations make this idea impossible to implement.

• Listed Team Components (LTC) rules restrict aerodynamic parts usage
• Transferable Components (TRC) regulations govern mechanical parts sharing
• Ban on staff transfers between Red Bull and Racing Bulls
• Restrictions on data and design sharing between teams

Red Bull now faces a dilemma — creating a car that suits Verstappen’s unique driving style while remaining manageable for his teammate in the cost cap era.