Yuki Tsunoda will start the F1 Qatar Sprint Race in P5 after today’s qualifying. The Japanese driver put in a clean and confident drive, which puts him ahead of his teammate, Max Verstappen, for the start of the sprint.
A clean weekend
As the season has progressed, Tsunoda looks somewhat more at home in the RB21. However, last weekend was difficult, and he started in P19 for the Las Vegas GP. With only two races left of the season, Tsunoda is looking to maximise his performance. And today, during the Qatar Sprint Qualifying, Tsunoda did just that.
His performance was clean and free of any costly mistakes. Because of this, he was able to out-qualify Verstappen on merit. This is the first time he has been able to achieve that. Speaking after the session, Tsunoda recognised that having a nice, clean session made it easier to perform during qualifying.
“So far, it’s been, I would say, a clean weekend, pretty smooth. No issues happened in practice, and, you know, in this qualifying so far. It’s good that we have had a clean race week so far.
“Just have to put it all together. There’s three more sessions to go. But yeah, I’m sure, especially now, it’s very important for the team, especially for Max. So, you know, it’s good that both sides of the garage is very focused and we try to give ourselves our maximum.”
An increase in confidence
His ability to deliver a clean sprint qualifying session may have some from an increase in confidence in his ability and the car. Tsunoda stated that he felt happy with the car during the session. This comes at a pivotal time for Red Bull. With Max Verstappen closing in on the title race, it will be a team effort to help crown him a 5-time World Champion.
“I feel more confidence into the qualifying.
“For me, also for me as well, you know, happy with the car and my confidence. Obviously, there are some bits to go for tomorrow to find the extra little bit, but I’m excited.”
