Yuki Tsunoda is confident that last year’s experience will enable him to achieve more this season…
Q: Last season was difficult for the team, but you personally took a big step forward…
Yuki TsunodaA: This happened for two reasons. The first is that I seriously improved my physical shape and concentration level, which affected the results. The second reason is more experience. I lost some confidence at the beginning of last year, and then I was able to recover it.
Now I’m performing on a completely different level and keeping my best qualities from the first season. I am in better control of the situation, I am more involved in the work of the team, I have learned a lot and I am taking an active part in the development of the machine.
Q: In the winter you trained in Dubai. What were you doing?
Yuki Tsunoda: Yes, I spent two weeks there working on general physical preparation with my new coach Michael – he previously worked with Riccardo. One of the tasks was to establish mutual understanding before the start of tests and races. Everything went well, and in training we mainly focused on endurance.
Q: The drivers’ results are mainly influenced by the competitiveness of the car, but still – are you setting any personal goals for the coming season?
Yuki Tsunoda: My main goal is to perform consistently in every race, to earn points. I want everything to be under control for me so that I can interact better with the team, consistently make my way to the qualifying finals and earn points in the races.
Q: This season will run six weekends at a time in the format with a sprint on Saturday. How does this affect your preparation?
Yuki Tsunoda: Actually, this year I’m less worried about sprint races and less practice for qualifying. I am sure that I can perform well and get into the rhythm immediately after the first Friday training. I know how to handle this format.
Q: Besides the obvious interest in the home round in Japan, which races are you most looking forward to this year and why?
Yuki Tsunoda: I’m looking forward to all the races, especially the first round in Bahrain. It is clear that the Japanese stage will be special, I really want to perform in front of my fans.
The atmosphere in Suzuka will be special. I think like in Las Vegas. But personally I will choose Japan!
Source: F1 News
I am Christopher Clyde, an experienced journalist and content writer with a passion for sports. I have been writing about Formula 1 news for the past five years and am currently employed as an author at athletistic.com, one of the top sports websites in the US.
