From Melbourne, Australia – Yuki Tsunoda put in an impressive qualifying performance, securing the second-best qualifying result of his career. The Racing Bulls driver attributed part of his success to a crucial assist from pole sitter Lando Norris during the session.
Tsunoda managed to outpace both Ferraris and newcomer Red Bull driver Liam Lawson to secure a fifth-place starting position for the first race of the season. He acknowledged the importance of the tow he received from Norris as they navigated Turn 9, ultimately helping him achieve his strong qualifying position.
Reflecting on his qualifying session, Tsunoda expressed his satisfaction with his performance, highlighting the progress he made with each session leading up to the final lap. He admitted to relying on a bit of luck, as well as the help of the tow from Norris, to secure his spot.
The presence of experienced drivers in Q3, including Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Pierre Gasly, motivated Tsunoda to strive for a strong finish. He recognized the competitiveness of the field and the potential consequences of even the smallest mistake in such a tight qualifying session.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Tsunoda expressed confidence following his successful start in Melbourne. Despite initial concerns after the pre-season test in Bahrain, he feels prepared to take on the challenges of the upcoming races and is determined to compete at a high level throughout the season.
Overall, Tsunoda’s performance in qualifying not only showcased his driving abilities but also highlighted the strategic collaboration that can occur between drivers during crucial moments on the track. The support and assistance from fellow competitors like Norris can make a significant difference in the outcome of a race weekend, emphasizing the teamwork and camaraderie present in the world of Formula 1.