Red Bull “very happy” with Tsunoda’s feedback in test

Yuki Tsunoda impressed Red Bull when he tested the team last week, according to their motorsport consultant Helmut Marko.

Red Bull is considering whether to replace Sergio Perez in the team’s line-up for next year. Tsunoda, who has just completed his fourth season at their second team RB, and his team mate Liam Lawson are the favourites to win promotion.

“As for next year’s driver line-up, we’ll announce updates in the coming days,” Marko told Red Bull-owned publication Speed Week. “There’s been plenty of speculation, including some absurd figures about potential buyout fees, which are complete nonsense.”

Tsunoda has spent longer at Red Bull’s second Formula 1 team than any other driver without being promoted to their main squad. Last week’s test was the first time he has driven a Red Bull in anything besides a demonstration run.

“During post-season testing, Yuki Tsunoda had the opportunity to drive the RB20, and the team was very pleased with his technical feedback,” said Marko. “In this regard, he is much better than he is often given credit for.”

Whoever Red Bull select as Max Verstappen’s team mate, Marko said the team will continue to prioritise his requirements when developing their car.

“I believe our team is capable of providing Max with a car that will allow him to fight for the championship again,” he said. “And we know what needs to be done. The car must have a wider operating window to ensure it remains balanced despite minor temperature fluctuations or technical adjustments.

“That’s exactly what our engineers are working on. Forty points of downforce are beneficial, but it’s those extra four-tenths on the stopwatch that concern both me and the driver. The car’s handling needs to be predictable, giving the driver the confidence required to push the limits.

“Since we have Max, the fastest and best driver on the grid, it’s only logical to tailor the car’s development to suit his driving preferences. I’m confident that as long as we provide him with a competitive car, he’ll remain with Red Bull Racing.”

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