Yuki Tsunoda

Career to date

Yuki Tsunoda’s ascent to Formula 1 was marked by a rapid progression through the junior formulae, supported by both the Honda Formula Dream Project and the Red Bull Junior Team. After winning the F4 Japanese Championship in 2018, Tsunoda moved to Europe, finishing ninth in the 2019 FIA Formula 3 Championship. His breakout year came in 2020, where he secured third place in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, earning the Anthoine Hubert Award as the highest-placed rookie. This performance paved the way for his Formula 1 debut in 2021 with Scuderia AlphaTauri.

In his early seasons, Tsunoda faced the steep learning curve typical of modern F1 rookies. To accelerate his development, he relocated from the United Kingdom to Faenza, Italy, to be closer to the team’s headquarters. This move proved pivotal, fostering a closer working relationship with his engineers and improving his physical preparation. By the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Tsunoda transitioned from a developing prospect to the experienced anchor of the team, now rebranded as RB. His ability to extract consistent performance from mid-field machinery has solidified his position on the grid as a reliable points-scorer.

Driving style

Tsunoda’s driving style is characterized by late braking and high-speed corner entry. He is known for an aggressive approach to overtaking, often utilizing deep braking zones to make gains on competitors. While his early career was noted for a high-risk approach that occasionally led to technical errors, he has evolved into a more calculated driver. His technical feedback has matured significantly, allowing him to play a central role in the team's car development cycle. Furthermore, his adaptability to varying track conditions, particularly in mixed weather, has become a notable asset in his racing toolkit.

Signature moments

Several key moments define Tsunoda’s career to date. His debut at the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix saw him score points immediately, finishing ninth and becoming the first Japanese driver to score points on debut. Later that year, he achieved a career-best fourth-place finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, demonstrating his potential to compete at the front of the field when the machinery allows. In subsequent seasons, his consistent ability to reach Qualifying 3 (Q3) and secure points in a highly competitive midfield has underscored his growth. His performances at his home race, the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, have also been a highlight, where he has frequently demonstrated strong pace in front of a home crowd.

What to watch

As Tsunoda continues his tenure with RB, the focus remains on his consistency and leadership within the garage. Observers look for his ability to maintain composure under high-pressure race scenarios and his capacity to lead the team’s technical direction. His performance relative to veteran teammates provides a constant benchmark for his elite-level speed. With a refined mental approach and several seasons of experience, Tsunoda’s trajectory remains a focal point for the Red Bull program and the future of Japanese motorsport on the global stage.