Tsunoda Gains Confidence with RB21, Eyes Positive Monza Result

Yuki Tsunoda has made significant progress with the RB21, achieving a valuable points finish at the Zandvoort Grand Prix. His ninth-place finish in the Netherlands marked his first points since the Imola GP last May, boosting his morale as he looks ahead to the season.

Why it matters:

Tsunoda's journey with the RB21 has seen its share of challenges. This recent breakthrough suggests he's finding his rhythm, which is crucial for his performance and standing within the Red Bull team, especially under new management.

The details:

• Car Adaptation: Tsunoda confirmed to GPblog that he's been steadily improving his feel for the car. "I think I have progressed since day one being in this car... in how I felt I was fully convinced I was in the right direction just step by step."
• Mid-Season Adjustment: He acknowledged the difficulty of joining mid-season and navigating changes within the Red Bull team, stating, "I gave my own all efforts every races. I knew that, especially since last few races it's getting closer and closer."
• Zandvoort Success: Despite difficult conditions involving safety cars, Tsunoda felt he "was able to put it all together" at Zandvoort, calling it "one of the best weekends I had in terms of progress" for squeezing out points.

Looking ahead to Monza:

Tsunoda approaches the Monza Grand Prix with renewed confidence, despite a history of misfortune there, including three DNFs in four races. He emphasizes a fresh start each year.

• Track Characteristics: "I still enjoy a lot of this track. Very challenging track in terms of confidence. When you have confidence you're going to have a quick lap and also for the race as well, it's quite a raceable track compared to others."
• Team Impressions: Regarding impressing new Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies, Tsunoda stated, "That’s what I’m trying to do every race. You always need results as much as possible. I try to exceed expectations and just keep doing what I’m doing." He also noted his results haven't been "too bad" since Mekies joined.