Tsunoda reveals details of sudden Red Bull promotion ahead of Japanese GP

Yuki Tsunoda reveals the details of his promotion to the Red Bull Formula 1 main team ahead of Japanese GP — a decision made after the Chinese GP to replace Liam Lawson who returns to Racing Bulls.

The Japanese driver received the first news from Christian Horner after the Shanghai race. “I got a call from Christian after China, saying I should be prepared for changes,” Tsunoda states.

“Surprisingly, [Marko] hasn’t contacted me yet — very unusual. I’m not sure if he’s busy with other things. From F3 to F1, he was always calling me, but this time he didn’t.”

Tsunoda’s preparation for the Japanese GP underwent sudden changes — he had to switch from the Racing Bulls simulator to Red Bull while in the UK. Despite receiving support from Sergio Perez and Pierre Gasly, Tsunoda says he isn’t feeling pressure yet.

“Pressure might come once on track, but for now I’m feeling relaxed. It feels similar to when I was at Racing Bulls. When I entered hospitality, I was only thinking about breakfast!”