Tsunoda feels Red Bull suits his driving style after Abu Dhabi test

Having completed his first test with Red Bull, Visa Cash RB driver Yuki Tsunoda sounded a positive note, explaining that the RB20 has very much suited his driving style.

Despite being part of the Red Bull Junior Programme and having driven older Red Bull F1 cars during demonstration runs, Tsunoda has never completed a proper test of any kind for the Red Bull F1 outfit. Yesterday’s post-season Pirelli tyre test at the Yas Marina Circuit saw the Japanese driver get behind the wheel of a current Red Bull F1 machine for the very first time.

The Sagamihara-born driver racked up a total of 127 laps, of which his fastest lap was a 1m24.689s. Reflecting on his day, Tsunoda said that he felt himself comfortable behind the wheel of the Red Bull.

“The Abu Dhabi post season test has been so fun today, it’s the first time in the past four years that I have driven a different car. You can physically feel why the RB20 has been fighting for a Championship this year, it feels like a very different car to drive.

“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.

“I feel like the car suits my driving style and I haven’t struggled much at all to adapt, even on the long runs I have been able to run consistently today and was able to feel the limitations of the car which if you don’t have confidence in the car you are unable to test.

“I am happy more than ever at the moment and making sure that the Team have the information that they require from each run is the most important thing to get out of today,” concluded Tsunoda.

The other Red Bull RB20 was piloted by Isack Hadjar, who finished second in the F2 standings behind Sauber-bound Gabriel Bortoleto. The French driver notched up a total of 125 laps, posting a best time of 1m24.632s.

Commenting on his day, Hajdar noted: “I have completed lots of laps at the post season testing today. I had a really good feel for the first two runs, which consisted of a bit of performance running and some long runs as well.

“Testing is tough for the Team and the day is very full on, we are learning a lot and I actually got to do my first practice start which was so fun. Straight away I felt very comfortable in the RB20, I have now done four FP1 session, but they are only every four months so each time you try not to forget how the car feels.

“We have provided plenty of information to give to the Team and the engineers, so I am pleased with the work we have done and I hope I get more opportunities like this in the future.”