Yuki Tsunoda Laughs Off 'Pretty Bad' Apex Legends Cameo at Tokyo Game Show

Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda recently participated in an Apex Legends event at the Tokyo Game Show, admitting his performance was "pretty bad" after a three-year hiatus from the game. Despite his rusty skills, Tsunoda enjoyed the experience, particularly playing alongside professional streamers and gamers he used to watch.

Why it matters:

This appearance highlights the increasing crossover between mainstream sports and gaming culture, offering F1 drivers a platform to connect with fans in new, authentic ways. It also shows a lighter, more personal side of Tsunoda, resonating with a younger, digitally native audience.

The Details:

• Tsunoda participated in an Apex Legends event at the Tokyo Game Show at the invitation of Red Bull.
• He hadn't played the game in "three or four years," having stopped after moving from Milton Keynes.
• Acknowledged Poor Performance: Tsunoda candidly described his performance as "pretty bad," admitting he was "run over by literally pro streamers and pros."
• Enjoyed the Experience: Despite the lack of skill, he found it a "cool experience" to play alongside streamers he admired and used to watch on YouTube.
• Controller Issues: Tsunoda humorously claimed a "broken" controller was partly to blame for his struggles, joking that a new one would improve his performance.

Between the lines:

While Tsunoda's gaming skills may have been lacking, his willingness to openly admit it and enjoy the experience underscores an authentic personality that has endeared him to many F1 fans. This kind of casual, relatable content helps humanize athletes beyond their competitive roles.

What's next:

This engagement, even if lighthearted, could pave the way for more interactive fan experiences involving F1 drivers and popular gaming titles. It reinforces how teams like Red Bull are exploring diverse avenues to promote their drivers and connect with a broader demographic.