Yuki Tsunoda, the former driver of Red Bull Racing, reflects on his intense experience alongside Max Verstappen during the 2025 season of Formula 1. The emotional and mental impact of this period was significant, with considerable repercussions in his personal life.
In a recent interview on the podcast Beyond The Grid, Tsunoda shared that 2025 was the most challenging year of his career. Despite his expectations, the constant pressure to match the champion Verstappen’s performance became an emotional burden.
Tsunoda changed cars mid-season to join Red Bull without having previously tested the RB21. This contributed to an uneven course in which he ended up ranked 17th in the drivers’ championship, while Verstappen was just shy of the world title, losing by only two points.
The Japanese driver commented on the difficulties he experienced in moments of stress, pointing out that, compared to previous years, he could not regain his usual energy. ‘I realized I wasn’t enjoying my life,’ he explained, highlighting that the aspects that used to make him happy, like being with friends or enjoying food, no longer had the same effect.
After a complicated year of reflection, Tsunoda sought psychological help to cope with his situation. He acknowledged that the distance from his family and friends in Japan had increased his sense of isolation.
After losing his driver seat, which was taken by Isack Hadjar, Tsunoda returned to the Italian team by participating in the last races of the season. In this new phase, he stated that he feels more mature and prepared to face future challenges, affirming that he no longer has the same pressure as in 2025.
Looking back, Tsunoda acknowledges that the experience he went through has been formative and he hopes that the lessons learned will help him thrive in the future, hoping not to face situations as difficult as those he encountered that year.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
SourceID: SRC_9249fc5b7dfbee616a9e8ebe18da2ec7c8704be2