Tsunoda cautiously satisfied with P15: 'At least showed good speed in Q1

Yuki Tsunoda qualified P15 in the Red Bull for the Japanese Grand Prix, behind the driver he replaced, Liam Lawson, a result the Japanese did not see coming.

"Q1 as well felt pretty good. I just missed the window, I guess. I think the window that this car can operate in is very narrow and the warm-up, probably most of the things have to be almost perfect, especially [the tyre] warm-up."

Tsunoda stated that in his second lap in Q2, he was able to do the same warm-up lap as in Q1. "That makes a big difference again. So, something I learned, kind of recognised in Q2, but it was a bit too late. It's a shame that we didn't get to put it all together when it's the right time"

Where did Tsunoda's problems come from?

In Q2, the red flag was waved because the sparks from the cars had caused a small fire next to the track. A problem that has occurred more frequently in the past few days. Asked to what extent he was disadvantaged by the red flag: "[It's the] same for everyone."

"I think it's not that [the issue], it's just a warm-up I guess. I don't know." The Japanese driver also mentioned that it could have been due to a strong gust of wind he encountered. "It's hard to say what happened there."

Tsunoda satisfied with own pace in Japan

However, Tsunoda also sees enough positive aspects in the story. "At least I showed a good pace in Q1 and I feel like I have a bit good confidence in the car. I'm sure it's still learning in the process I'm learning, but it’s a shame. To be honest I didn't expect this result today."

Despite the lowly result, he will move up a spot, after the penalty for Carlos Sainz

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