Tsunoda searching for answers to explain 'no grip' in China

After a strong start to 2024, Yuki Tsunoda is unsure why he struggled at the Chinese GP.

Yuki Tsunoda can be satisfied with his 2024 campaign so far, having scored all 7 of RB’s points. He is performing at a very high level, building upon his progress at the Faenza-based team in recent years. However, the fifth round of the season in Shanghai has raised some concerns. Although one difficult weekend is no reason to panic, Tsunoda is still unsure why his pace suffered in China.

So far this year, the Japanese driver has been the reference at RB. Tsunoda enjoys a favourable head-to-head against teammate Daniel Ricciardo, who has spent much of the season on the back foot. However, the 8-time race winner made a notable step forward in round five – feeling more comfortable in the VCARB 01 and fighting further up the field.

On the other side of the garage, there was a clear regression. The #22 car failed to reach Q2 on Friday or Saturday qualifying – finishing an alarming P19 in both. Whilst some might attribute this to the challenge of adapting to a new track layout, this conclusion seems rather lazy. What the 23-year-old suffered was not a case of unfamiliarity – but instead a fundamental lack of grip in the car.

This was his conclusion after a tough weekend, when he was at a loss throughout. Once again, it must be emphasised that a brief dip in form is not unusual in Formula 1. The concern for Tsunoda, however, will be that his problem remains unidentified.

Tsunoda baffled by behaviour of the VCARB 01

The VCARB driver has explained his dilemma:

“I was pretty happy with my lap,” motorsport-total quotes him as saying.

“To be honest, I don’t think so [if a mistake cost him in qualifying]. Because right from Practice 1, I had the feeling that the rear had no grip.

“The team definitely tried hard to find the season… These things happen sometimes, and I hope that… it will be better in the next round in Miami.

“If I’m able to come back strong in Miami with normal form, I’m sure I can fight strongly again around P10.”

Underlying question mark at RB

These comments outline an element of confidence, with Yuki Tsunoda trusting in his own abilities. Considering his performances over the last two seasons, there is no reason for the Japanese driver to doubt himself.

However, there are still questions for Laurent Mekies and his personnel to answer. First Ricciardo, and now Tsunoda, have complained that their VCARB 01 unexpectedly and – inexplicably – does not behave as it should. With only five race weekends completed in 2024, identifying the root of this issue is essential.

Whether the issue is merely set up or another more quantifiable variable, a solution is essential. Haas have scored points at three events this year, with Nico Hulkenberg capitalising on his newly upgraded VF-24. Ayao Komatsu’s personnel are also introducing more updates in Miami – an indication of their bolstered capabilities as a team.

With Alpine taking steps forward, Sauber receiving a boost from Audi and Williams preparing significant upgrades, the Faenza-based team must address their weaknesses to retain P6 in the Championship.