“Showed what he could do”- Pierre Gasly backs his teammate Yuki Tsunoda’s talent ahead of his Formula 1 debut in 2021 with Alpha Tauri.
Yuki Tsunoda getting a Formula 1 break by having only a year-long experience in F2 speaks about his talent. Other drivers usually remain for a couple of years at least before being considered for the top-flight.
Pierre Gasly, who would be partnering with the Japanese wonderkid, has spoken about his talent and reveals what made Red Bull rely on him despite Tsunoda having only a year-long experience in F2.
“Of course, Yuki’s arrival means I will have more responsibility within the team, and I’m ready to take on the role of team leader,” he said according to Alpha Tauri’s official website.
“However, he is a swift driver. And he will help us move the team forward. I know Yuki. He is a competitive guy and showed what he could do in F2. That’s why he was promoted to F1 after just one year.”
It will take time
Tsunoda took time to get used to the competitiveness of F2 but found his way in the second part of 2020 and secured multiple podiums. He almost caught Ferrari products Mick Schumacher and Callum Ilott.
But in the end, he had to settle with P3, which was sufficient for Red Bull to give him an opportunity. Though, Gasly feels that lack of experience will trouble him in F1 too.
“He lacks experience. So it won’t always be easy for him,” he said. “But I think he is talented, and it will also be up to the team and me to lead the way.”
In 2021 at least, Tsunoda has minimal pressure, as the management is ready to give him time for a couple of years before deciding his fate with the franchise.
Meanwhile, a huge pool of current prospects also obliviates him of any sudden addition of responsibilities. So, it is ideal for Tsunoda to progress his craft.
