Yuki Tsunoda has openly talked about the challenges he faced during his time with Red Bull Racing. In a recent podcast, the Japanese driver shared how his competition with Max Verstappen affected his mental health and enjoyment of racing.
In a context marked by intense pressure, Tsunoda joined Red Bull in the middle of the 2025 season, having never driven the RB21 before his team change. This situation led him to a long struggle to keep up with his teammate, leaving him in the last position of the drivers’ championship.
Reflecting on this experience, Tsunoda described 2025 as the most difficult year of his career. ‘I learned a lot,’ he acknowledged, pointing out that the constant pressure affected his well-being. As the season progressed, he realized that his ability to recover after races became increasingly difficult. ‘I felt exhausted when I got home,’ he commented.
The driver revealed that he used to enjoy small things that used to bring him joy, like eating well, but by mid-season he started to feel that he was not enjoying his life or the competition as he once did. He recognized the need for help, turning to professionals to manage his emotional situation.
Finally, Tsunoda lost his seat on the grid, but managed to redirect his career after some time as a reserve driver. After Isack Hadjar‘s injury, Tsunoda returned to the circuit, participating in the last grand prix of the season with a new perspective. He now feels more prepared and less pressured, reflecting on what he learned from the difficulties he faced.
‘I don’t think I’ll experience such difficult moments as those in 2025,’ he concluded, expressing optimism about the future and his abilities behind the wheel.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
