Yuki Tsunoda Navigates Red Bull Promotion Amidst Helmut Marko’s Silence

Japanese Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda has found himself in an unexpected situation ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, as he prepares to take the wheel for Red Bull Racing after a series of difficult weekends for Liam Lawson. The shift comes following Red Bull’s decisive move to swap drivers, with Tsunoda stepping into the seat for Japan while Lawson returns to satellite team Scuderia AlphaTauri.

Tsunoda’s Unexpected Shift and Helmut Marko’s Absence

In a surprising turn of events, Tsunoda revealed that he has yet to hear from Red Bull’s driver advisor, Helmut Marko, since the team’s decision. This silence, according to Tsunoda, is “very unusual” given their close relationship dating back to his Formula 3 days.

Speaking after the Chinese Grand Prix, Tsunoda shared that he received a call from Red Bull team principal Christian Horner shortly after the Shanghai weekend, hinting at potential changes in his future. However, Marko has yet to reach out, leaving Tsunoda curious about the advisor’s busy schedule or possible reasons for his absence.

With the shift in teams just days before the Suzuka weekend, Tsunoda found himself juggling preparations for both Scuderia AlphaTauri and Red Bull Racing. He spent several days in the UK to adapt to the virtual rendition of the Red Bull car, all while preparing for the Japanese Grand Prix with Scuderia AlphaTauri.

Despite the sudden change and pressure to perform on his home weekend in an unfamiliar car, Tsunoda remains calm, attributing his relaxed state to familiar surroundings and supportive messages from former Red Bull drivers Sergio Perez and Pierre Gasly.

As the race weekend approaches, Tsunoda anticipates feeling the weight of expectation during qualifying but for now, he is taking things one step at a time, focusing on breakfast and enjoying the hospitality.