Yuki Tsunoda Shines in First Red Bull Test at Yas Marina Circuit
Fresh off the final race of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Yuki Tsunoda made waves with a promising debut in Red Bull Racing’s RB20 during the post-season Abu Dhabi tire test at the Yas Marina Circuit. The Japanese driver, who has been with Red Bull’s sister team VCARB (then AlphaTauri) since 2021, finally got his chance to prove himself in one of Red Bull’s championship-contending machines.
Though lap times were not the focus due to varying test programs across teams, Tsunoda was all smiles after the session, describing the experience as one of the highlights of his career.
“Very Different” but Perfectly Suited
The RB20, which finished the 2024 season third in the Constructors’ Championship, left a strong impression on Tsunoda.
“You can physically feel why the RB20 has been fighting for a championship this year. It feels like a very different car to drive,” Tsunoda said after the session.
The 24-year-old highlighted how the car seemed to align perfectly with his driving style, a realization he had already anticipated after his work in Red Bull’s simulator.
“I feel like the car suits my driving style, and I haven’t struggled much at all to adapt,” — “We have had a very proactive day today, so I am really happy with that. There is still a lot of learning that I have to do, but the team have done a great job of preparing such a great run today. It’s been such an enjoyable atmosphere in the garage.”
Tsunoda’s ease behind the wheel and his ability to provide technical feedback were areas he knew he had to demonstrate during the test, especially given past concerns from Red Bull about his temperament and analytical capabilities.
“I am happy more than ever at the moment,” Tsunoda added. “Making sure that the team have the information they require from each run was the most important thing to get out of today.”
A Critical Opportunity for Tsunoda’s Future
This test run could have significant implications for Tsunoda’s career trajectory. With Sergio Pérez’s future at Red Bull under scrutiny after an underwhelming 2024 season, Tsunoda’s performance and feedback may position him as a strong candidate for promotion to the main team.
While Red Bull has historically been cautious about promoting Tsunoda, citing questions about his consistency and temperament, his strong showing in Abu Dhabi may help sway team management.
Ben Waterhouse, Red Bull’s performance director, expressed his satisfaction with Tsunoda’s efforts, particularly with his feedback on the 2025 Pirelli tires.
“We successfully completed the priority test items on both cars with both drivers performing to a very high level and delivering exactly what we anticipated,” — “Yuki provided excellent feedback on the various tests performed on the 2025 Pirelli tires, offering valuable insight on the tire changes Pirelli will introduce for next year.”
A Glimpse of Red Bull’s 2025 Plans
The post-season test also served as a valuable opportunity for Red Bull to prepare for the challenges ahead. With changes to the Pirelli tire compounds on the horizon for 2025, the team relied on Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar to gather critical data.
Waterhouse’s comments suggested that Tsunoda not only adapted well to the car but also provided the type of feedback that could be valuable in shaping Red Bull’s strategies for next season.
What’s Next for Tsunoda?
Tsunoda’s impressive run in the RB20 will undoubtedly spark conversations within Red Bull’s management. Whether it will be enough to secure him a promotion remains to be seen, but his performance has certainly strengthened his case.
For now, Tsunoda will return to VCARB, where he has grown into a dependable midfield driver. However, the dream of joining the Red Bull Racing lineup in 2025 feels closer than ever after his first test in one of the most competitive cars on the grid.
As Tsunoda put it, the test run left him feeling “happier than ever,” and he will hope that his efforts at Yas Marina are the first step toward a full-time seat with Red Bull Racing.
For Red Bull, the test reaffirmed the depth of talent within their junior program. Whether Tsunoda gets his big break or not, the team can rest assured they have a driver who is ready and capable of stepping up when called upon.
