Rindi Putra
In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, the journey from a promising talent to a seat in one of the top teams is no walk in the park. For Yuki Tsunoda, the path to securing a coveted position at Red Bull Racing is riddled with tough obstacles, including fierce competition, financial challenges, and the need to outshine experienced teammates.
Amidst these challenges looms the formidable shadow of Daniel Ricciardo, a seasoned driver with a rich history in the Red Bull Racing stable.
Ricciardo's memorable moments with Red Bull
Ricciardo's tenure with Red Bull Racing was marked by memorable moments and extraordinary achievements. One pinnacle of his career came in the 2018 Monaco Grand Prix, where he secured a remarkable victory.
The race, infamous for its tight and twisty circuit, demands precision and skill, and Ricciardo delivered a flawless performance, fending off technical issues and intense pressure to clinch the win.
The Australian driver's time at Red Bull was also characterized by intense competition within the team, particularly with his then-teammate Max Verstappen. Their battles on the track became the stuff of legend, captivating fans worldwide.
The duels were not just about points and positions; they were clashes between two talented drivers with a shared goal – to prove themselves as the team's top contender.
This legacy poses an additional challenge for Yuki Tsunoda. Ricciardo, with his experience, fan base, and proven track record, stands as a formidable benchmark within the Alpha Tauri team. Tsunoda acknowledges this, stating:
“Daniel has more experience; Daniel has obviously more fans,” he told Autosport. “He is (one of the) more trusted drivers. I guess he is (one of the) most valued drivers, so it makes sense (Daniel linked up to Red Bull)." -Yuki Tsunoda
Yuki Tsunoda: "I still have the confidence that I can beat him"
To secure a seat at Red Bull Racing, Tsunoda realizes that he must not only outpace the competition but also outshine his esteemed teammate.
As the current standings (before the Las Vegas GP) place Tsunoda in the 14th position with 13 points and Ricciardo in the 17th position with 6 points (bearing in mind Ricciardo joined the team mid-season), the Japanese driver faces an uphill battle.
However, the history of Ricciardo's success in the Red Bull Racing team serves as both inspiration and a stark reminder of the level of excellence required to earn a spot within the prestigious ranks of the team.
While Tsunoda dreams of joining the Red Bull Racing team and replacing Sergio Perez when his contract concludes in 2024, he is acutely aware that he must first traverse the formidable legacy of Daniel Ricciardo.
“(Daniel) is doing a good job. I think especially he came back from McLaren and he seems very comfortable with the (current AlphaTauri) car, especially compared to previous teams.
“I think he is Red Bull energy, his Red Bull style suits the team maybe.
“But still, I’m not worried that I won’t beat him. I still have the confidence that I can beat him and am still learning from him.” -Yuki Tsunoda
Only time will unveil whether Tsunoda's determination and on-track prowess can carve a new chapter in the storied history of Red Bull Racing, securing a position alongside the greats who have donned the team's colors in the past.
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