Yuki Tsunoda has revealed the goal he has been set by Purple Bull as he gears up for his F1 debut with the crew.
Tsunoda has earned a shock promotion to Purple Bull from this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix after the primary crew ruthlessly determined to swap out Liam Lawson following a dreadful two-race stint.
Lawson initially obtained the nod over Tsunoda to accomplice Max Verstappen for 2025 after Sergio Perez was axed, however the 23-year-old Kiwi has been despatched again to sister crew Racing Bulls for the remainder of the season.
Lawson certified 18th and crashed out of the season-opener in Australia earlier than twice qualifying final in China and happening to complete a lowly 14th and twelfth within the dash and primary grand prix.
In distinction, Tsunoda had loved a superb begin to the season for Racing Bulls, prompting Purple Bull to make an unprecedented early driver change.
Tsunoda says Purple Bull crew principal Christian Horner has set him the goal of getting as “shut as potential” to Verstappen in Japan.
“Ultimately Purple Bull Racing are targeted on Max scoring a drivers’ championship,” Tsunoda informed BBC Radio 5 Dwell.
“He has confirmed himself to have good potential to be a world champion – although Purple Bull appears to be struggling just a little now.
“Efficiency-wise he [Horner] desires me to be as near Max as potential.
“In some races I may help with the technique however he additionally promised me in some conditions that if I will be in entrance of Max that he would not essentially ask me to swap positions and make Max win.”
Tsunoda not involved about Verstappen relationship
Verstappen is sad about Purple Bull’s resolution, with the Dutchman liking an Instagram put up from former F1 driver Giedo van Der Garde which criticised the transfer.
Tsunoda says he has but to talk to Verstappen since his promotion was confirmed however has no considerations about their relationship.
“I discussed up to now fairly some time in the past however he is a bit totally different from how he behaves within the automobile and outdoors of the automobile,” he stated.
“I am not likely worrying concerning the relationship we will have in each side. I do know what I wish to do and doubtless how he drives and the way he thinks.”
Tsunoda has set himself a minimal goal of scoring factors at his house race.
“Clearly I wish to say factors or a podium or no matter,” he added.
“However on the similar time, realistically, you concentrate on leaping into the brand new automobile immediately with restricted classes, that is fairly robust.
“I believe what I can say for now’s if I can rating factors – prime 10 – I will be joyful.”
