Yuki Tsunoda becomes Japan’s new hope in Formula 1

According to Formula1.com, Yuki Tsunoda becomes the first Japanese driver to compete in a top Formula 1 team — an achievement that hasn’t occurred in several decades.

The history of Japanese drivers in F1 began when Hiroshi Fushida pioneered in 1975. Since then, 18 drivers from the Land of the Rising Sun have tried their luck in this elite racing series — with varying results.

Two historic moments occurred at Suzuka Circuit:

• Aguri Suzuki claimed Japan’s first podium in 1990 with Larrousse team
• Kamui Kobayashi finished third at the 2012 Japanese GP with Sauber team

Suzuki’s podium came behind the drama of Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost’s crash. He capitalized on the situation — climbing to third position after several frontrunners experienced technical issues.

Meanwhile, Kobayashi recorded his achievement differently — starting from third position and defending against Jenson Button’s pressure until the finish line, with just half a second separating them.

Now, Tsunoda carries great expectations to continue the successful legacy of Japanese drivers in Formula 1 — a heavier challenge considering the high expectations from a top team.