Yuki Tsunoda optimistic about Red Bull F1 car challenge

Yuki Tsunoda — Red Bull Racing’s new driver — expresses confidence in overcoming his new Formula 1 team’s car characteristics that are known to be challenging.

After showing convincing performance with Racing Bulls in early 2025 — though strategy miscalculations prevented points scoring — Tsunoda earned promotion to Red Bull’s main team from Japanese GP replacing Liam Lawson who struggled adapting to RB21.

Max Verstappen’s previous four teammates — Pierre Gasly, Alexander Albon and Sergio Perez — struggled with Red Bull’s oversteery cars that require a specific driving style.

“Rather than seeing it as an extremely difficult car, I felt the setup philosophy was completely different. I had to slightly adjust my approach compared to how I usually set up the car at Racing Bulls,” said Tsunoda after trying the RB21 in the simulator.

“People often say Red Bull cars have strong front-end grip. I personally love cars that turn aggressively, and in the past I’ve adapted to that kind of setup,” he added.

Ahead of his home race in Suzuka, Tsunoda sets realistic targets — reaching Q3 and finishing in points — while working to maximize his new car’s potential within limited adaptation time.