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Yuki Tsunoda’s return to the Formula 1 grid at the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix may not have been one for the history books in terms of results, but it was certainly a performance that showed promise. Stepping in to replace Liam Lawson at Red Bull, the Japanese driver made the most of a tough situation, showcasing growth and resilience in front of his home crowd.
Despite a disappointing qualifying session, Tsunoda displayed maturity and control during the race at Suzuka. Starting 14th — courtesy of a penalty to Williams’ Carlos Sainz — the 24-year-old made up two positions to finish 12th, just behind veteran Fernando Alonso in the Aston Martin.
Marko’s Verdict: “It Was Good”
Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko expressed satisfaction with Tsunoda’s overall showing, particularly given his limited seat time in the RB21.
“It was good. It was just unlucky that in Qualifying 2 he had this mistake. But otherwise it was fine,” Marko told Motorsport.com after the race.
Tsunoda’s minor error in Q2 saw him miss out on advancing further in qualifying, ultimately placing him 15th before the post-qualifying grid shuffle.
Mixed Feelings for Tsunoda
Tsunoda was candid in his post-race reflections, acknowledging his internal conflict between satisfaction with his performance and disappointment with the result.
“I'm happy with the race, in terms of my performance,” he said. “But obviously, in terms of results, it's quite tough, especially for my home Grand Prix.
“I was definitely expecting more, and you know, at least I wanted to finish in a point, so it's mixed feelings.”
Having had limited opportunities to test the RB21 before the race, Tsunoda noted the race provided valuable experience.
“The 53, 54 laps I got in this race was the most laps I had in this car. Every lap I was learning, and finally, I got decent laps in the car, and I definitely feel more confidence in the car. I just feel overall controlled more towards the end of the race."
Eyes on Improvement and Bahrain
Though not content with finishing outside the points, Tsunoda recognized the importance of building rhythm and gaining experience. With the season still young, he remains optimistic.
"I'm happy considering the amount of time I had, but because of [it being my] home Grand Prix, I just wanted to finish in the points. I just have to build the pace. It's fortunate that there's Max that I can learn from. So I just keep doing what I'm doing. I'm excited for Bahrain, actually."
Verstappen Untouchable at Suzuka
At the sharp end of the field, Max Verstappen put on a dominant display, securing pole position and converting it into a flawless victory. Marko was effusive in his praise for the defending world champion.
“I mean the car, fortunately, got a very good setup. And Max was unbelievable: 53 laps without any mistakes and absolutely on limit,” he said.
With 21 races still left on the calendar, Red Bull knows the road to a fifth drivers’ title won’t be easy, but confidence remains high.
“21 races still to come. It will be tight but we have to improve our car, that's clear,” Marko concluded.
