Tsunoda is confident to match Horner's expectations: 'I hope I can do better than others'

08:21, 03 Apr

Updated: 10:46, 03 Apr

byKada Sarkozi

Ahead of his first Grand Prix with Red Bull Racing, Yuki Tsunoda was informed by team principal Christian Horner what he needs to achieve. The Japanese driver needs to be as close as possible to Max Verstappen, something he himself underlined will not easy.

Tsunoda is set to make his debut for the Austrian side entering his home Grand Prix in Suzuka. After Liam Lawson was replaced just after two rounds into the season, does the Japanese driver feel any added pressure on his shoulders?

"I didn't get any specific races, like the time I have to prove [myself]," he began at the press conference in Suzuka.

"He's been so far very supportive, and he just mentioned the expectation from him to me, what he wants me to achieve. And I mean, pressure is always [there], I guess, once you hit the track. And for now, I'm really relaxed somehow. Feels actually similar to when I was in VCARB."

The driver explains he not really concerned with pressure, saying that this weekend would have been different because his home Grand Prix is the next one on the schedule.

"Once I entered to the hospitality, I was feeling literally the same. I was only thinking about breakfast. So ys, I don't really, so far, necessarily feel pressure or anything. I think those things will naturally come. Anyway, it's home Grand Prix and qualifying, I'm sure it's going to be hectic, but there's not much point to feel pressure. Anyway, I'm feeling confident and I hope I can do a little bit different as other drivers."

Tsunoda must keep up with Verstappen

When asked what's expected of him, Tsunoda answered, "Basically, [to] be as close to Max as possible, which anyway gives a good result, I'm sure, for the team. Also to allow the team to support, also as a strategy as well in the race."

Tsunoda was also clear about his team focusing on Verstappen. "I mean, they clearly said it's their main priority is Max, which I completely understand because he's a four-time world champion, and so far already last few races, even in the car is difficult situation, they still perform well. So to be close as much as much as possible to Max, also help the development as well. Give my feedback and he seems very happy with my feedback that I had gave in Abu Dhabi, so just continue that. But I think for now main priority what I have is to be closest to him and which won't be easy for sure."

The driver also explained that he will not ask for help from the defending world champion. He also said at the press conference that he believes Verstappen will not tell the truth about the RB21, and that he wants to get to know the car himself instead.