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Yuki Tsunoda insists Liam Lawson’s F1 return ‘spices’ things up for Red Bull seat fight
IPA

Liam Lawson has been handed Daniel Ricciardo ‘s seat for the rest of the 2024 season. The Australian was sacked by RB due to his inconsistent performance. They decided to give Lawson the opportunity to show his capability as the Kiwi driver had been sidelined for almost a year.

Yuki Tsunoda believes things will spice up between him and Liam Lawson for the spot in Red Bull racing. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner confirmed that either Lawson or Tsunoda will race alongside Max Verstappen based on their performance.

Both drivers must prove their worth, turning the upcoming races into a direct competition for the main Red Bull seat. Tsunoda, preparing for the US Grand Prix, acknowledged that competing with the 22-year-old will push them both to their absolute limits. He admitted the rivalry feels more intense this time, adding extra spice to their competition for a spot in Red Bull.

Maybe slightly a bit more spice on top of it than usual, but I think it was similar to last year as well. I know that those things are just floating around anyway. But at least on my side, I just focus on what I have to do, and obviously Liam will do a good job as well.

Yuki Tsunoda told F1i.com

Even though the team isn’t fighting for race wins, Tsunoda understands that they need to consistently score points to stay ahead of Haas. Despite their rivalry, the 24-year-old is aware that he and Lawson must put in their best efforts for the team’s success in the Constructors’ Championship.

Yuki Tsunoda reflects on his potential promotion to Red Bull racing

Yuki Tsunoda emphasized doing his best from the start of the season, focusing on performance and results. He explained that he feels this situation is similar to when Daniel Ricciardo was still on the team.

The Japanese driver mentioned that talk about performance and promotions is always present in the background, but he has gotten used to it. Instead of worrying about it, Tsunoda believes the best approach is to keep proving himself through his hard work.

I just have to keep proving myself as a result and how I work throughout the race weekends; keep focusing on what I have to do and those opportunities, it’s up to them and we’ll see how it goes.

Yuki Tsunoda explained

Just six races remain until the season ends. Red Bull faces an intense battle with McLaren for the Constructors’ Championship, as the Woking-based team currently leads the standings by 41 points. A decision on who will partner Max Verstappen next season will not be made until the season is wrapped up.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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