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Tsunoda and Hadjar react to the RB20 post-season test in Abu Dhabi
- Estéban den Toom
Yuki Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar took part in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi on behalf of Red Bull Racing. That test consisted of two parts: a section of tyre testing from Pirelli, and a section for the rookies. Charles Leclerc was the fastest, with both of today's Red Bull drivers (Tsunoda and Hadjar) outside the top ten. The drivers give their initial reaction to the post-season test.
Tsunoda reacts to "fun" testing in Abu Dhabi
Tsunoda was very happy with his debut in the RB20: "The Abu Dhabi postseason test has been so fun today, it’s the first time in the past four years that I have driven a different car. You can physically feel why the RB20 has been fighting for a Championship this year, it feels like a very different car to drive. We have had a very proactive day today so I am really happy with that. There is still a lot of learning that I have to do but the team have done a great job of preparing such a great run today, it’s been such an enjoyable atmosphere in the garage.
"I feel like the car suits my driving style and I haven’t struggled much at all to adapt, even on the long runs I have been able to run consistently today and was able to feel the limitations of the car which if you don’t have confidence in the car you are unable to test. I am happy more than ever at the moment and making sure that the Team have the information that they require from each run is the most important thing to get out of today," the Japanese driver continued.
Hadjar on a "very full-on" post-season test
Hadjar has already driven the RB20 several times. The last time he sat behind the wheel of the car, before the final test in Abu Dhabi, was last weekend during the last FP1 of the season. Max Verstappen then made way for the French-Algerian driver. During Tuesday's test, he once again stepped into the car.
Hadjar was also happy with the opportunity to test on behalf of Red Bull: "I have completed lots of laps at the postseason testing today. I had a really good feel for the first two runs, which consisted of a bit of performance running and some long runs as well. Testing is tough for the Team and the day is very full on, we are learning a lot and I actually got to do my first practice start which was so fun.
"Straight away I felt very comfortable in the RB20, I have now done four FP1 sessions, but they are only every four months so each time you try not to forget how the car feels. We have provided plenty of information to give to the Team and the engineers, so I am pleased with the work we have done and I hope I get more opportunities like this in the future," Hadjar concluded.
This article was written in collaboration with Olly Darcy
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