BREAKING: Yuki Tsunoda’s Transformation Earns Red Bull’s Trust, Says Helmut Marko
Red Bull Racing’s advisor, Helmut Marko, has heaped praise on Yuki Tsunoda, highlighting the Japanese driver’s remarkable growth in Formula 1. Marko believes Tsunoda has undergone a significant transformation, proving himself worthy of a spot in Red Bull’s talent pool, regardless of Honda’s backing.
Tsunoda, who made his F1 debut with AlphaTauri (now RB) in 2021, has faced a steep learning curve in the sport. Initially known for his aggressive driving style and emotional outbursts over the radio, the young Japanese driver has matured considerably over the past seasons. His performances have steadily improved, making him a consistent points-scorer for the team.
Marko, known for his no-nonsense approach to evaluating Red Bull’s young drivers, acknowledged Tsunoda’s progress. “He doesn’t have to be afraid,” Marko stated, referring to the driver’s ability to hold his own in the competitive world of F1. The Austrian further emphasized that Tsunoda’s promotion within the Red Bull family was based on his performance rather than Honda’s influence.
Honda, Red Bull’s long-term engine partner, has played a significant role in Tsunoda’s career, supporting him through the junior ranks before helping secure his F1 seat. However, Marko dismissed suggestions that Honda’s backing was the decisive factor in keeping Tsunoda in the Red Bull fold. Instead, he credited the driver’s growth and impressive performances on track.
Tsunoda’s 2024 season with RB has been particularly strong, with consistent results that have put him ahead of his more experienced teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, on several occasions. His ability to extract maximum performance from the car and his improved racecraft have not gone unnoticed by Red Bull’s management.
With Sergio Perez’s future at Red Bull Racing uncertain beyond 2024, Tsunoda’s name has been increasingly linked to a potential promotion to the senior team. While competition for the second Red Bull seat remains fierce, Tsunoda’s transformation has positioned him as a serious contender.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Tsunoda to see if he can continue his upward trajectory and prove himself as a future Red Bull R
acing driver.
