Yuki Tsunoda Cites Verstappen’s Example While Downplaying Age Factor Ahead of F1 Debut

Max Verstappen entered the F1 grid in 2015 as the youngest ever Formula 1 driver. This season, Yuki Tsunoda is making his debut with AlphaTauri and is the youngest F1 driver on the grid. The first driver from the 2000s, the 20-year-old is following in the footsteps of the Dutchman.

While most people would think that he would feel intimidated entering the grid so young, in a recent interview, Tsunoda explained why age does not matter.

“I don’t think it’s worth putting too much emphasis on age – as Max Verstappen was 17 when he started – but I feel it’s an honour to be the first driver on the grid to be born in 2000,” said the Japanese racer.

Japanese engine manufacturer Honda has backed Yuki’s Formula 1 career, and some argue that Tsunoda landed and AlphaTauri seat because of that very reason. However, his P3 finish and three wins in the F2 season warrant his F1 promotion.

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Yuki Tsunoda explains his Formula 1 goal

The Japanese racer explained that his goal has always been to reach Formula 1. Tsunoda also acknowledged that you also need some luck to win deliver results.

“I knew I always had to give my best at all times. It was in my hands to stand out and impress the bosses, who can make your dream come true.

In every series, you need to develop a strong pace very quickly, so I was committed to doing well right from the start of my career,” said Tsunoda.

The most important thing going into F1 will be to learn and adapt as soon as possible. The F1 series is much more tasking and harder than the F2 championship.

Do you think Yuki Tsunoda has what it takes to become the first Japanese driver to win a Formula 1 race?