How Did Yuki Tsunoda Get Into F1?

By Edcel Panganiban July 05, 2024 06:12

Photo by Marco Canoiero/LightRocket via Getty Images

The story of Yuki Tsunoda, from karting to Formula 1, is filled with resilience and enormous talent. Tsunoda, born on May 11th, 2000, in Sagamihara City, Kanagawa, has rocketed up the junior formulae categories and is now a staple in Formula 1. In this detailed account, we will take an in-depth look at how Yuki Tsunoda got to F1 - from the early racing days right through his junior career and explore crucial discovery points such as joining Red Bull's development program. 

Beginner Years in Racing

Tsunoda started racing in 2005, participating at Nakai Inter Circuit. Thanks to his natural talent and cutthroat style of driving, Tsunoda was able to capture the 2006 series title and became racing's hottest commodity.

Junior Racing Series

His on-track talent made him a standout in junior racing as he continued to rise through the ranks. His victory in the FIA Formula 4 Championship Round 2 at Okayama in December 2017 made him the youngest Championship winner. That success didn't end, however, as Yuki went on to claim the 2018 F4 Japanese Championship and make a name for himself in the motorsport world.

He went on to compete in the 2019 FIA Formula 3 (F3) Championship, where he established himself as one of the most exciting rising stars, before finishing third overall in his debut season at a higher-level series.

Major Milestones, Breakthroughs and Challenges

The most effective way we can take you through his journey from junior competition to the F1 grid is to tackle those milestones, breakthroughs, and trials as they happened throughout Tsunoda's race in various touring cars. One of his stepping stones was the FIA Japanese Formula 4 Championship, where he showcased a vast reserve of talent behind the wheel combined with an indomitable will to win, permanently cementing his position in motorsport lore.

Although this success came with challenges that would test Tsunoda's mettle, his sheer determination and commitment allowed him to overcome the bumps in the road on many occasions, making way for greater triumphs awaiting him ahead in Formula 1.

Signed by Red Bull's Junior Program

The potential and talent of Tsunoda, which are pretty evident, did not miss the eyes for long. This young lad was quickly discovered by none other than Red Bull's junior program. Tsunoda has been supported by Honda since 2016 via the manufacturer's Formula Dream Project. His exceptional performances attracted attention from high-level figures within racing, leading to him reaching this top bracket of the single-seater series.

Red Bull Ladder progression

Tsunoda raced through Red Bull's junior ranks to prove he earned a Formula 1 seat. His relationship with Red Bull led him into a world of new opportunities and experiences where he could prove himself internationally. This move marked the beginning of his Formula 1 career milestone.

What We Can Expect from Tsunoda's Driving Style and Potential

He is surprisingly precise when not in attack mode, shows great agility around the track, and drives fearlessly. He's a driver who excels in his ability to adapt, meticulously race long-term, and do all that with sheer determination. Tsunoda's journey through this season will surely enthrall motorsport fans, but he seems to have already put a good foot forward.

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