In an impressive assessment, Racing Bulls Team Principal Laurent Mekies has praised Yuki Tsunoda's remarkable progress over the past year, which ultimately earned him a coveted spot alongside Max Verstappen in Red Bull Racing. Tsunoda's evolution has left fans and analysts alike awestruck, raising questions about how this once-overlooked driver transformed into a leading contender.

Despite being initially passed over by Red Bull during the winter, Tsunoda's determination and skill shone through as he outperformed expectations early in the season. After just two races, the Japanese driver’s exceptional performance coincided with fellow driver Liam Lawson's struggles to adapt to the RB21, providing Tsunoda an opportunity he seized with both hands.

During a recent FIA press conference at Suzuka, Mekies heaped praise on Tsunoda's development , describing it as a '360-degree improvement.' This multifaceted growth has not only been about age and experience but also reflected a newfound calmness and enhanced technical feedback from Tsunoda. Mekies pointed out that these advancements have translated into quicker lap times on the track.

“Yuki has made incredible strides in the last 12 months,” Mekies stated. “His natural speed has increased significantly, allowing him to establish himself as a team leader from the start of the season. This kind of improvement never comes easy, and you can see the dedication and concentration he has poured into his craft.”

When asked about the standout aspects of Tsunoda's recent performances, Mekies highlighted the driver's ability to handle the pressures of race weekends. “He demonstrates an uncanny ability to have a faultless weekend, from the first lap of FP1 to the final lap of the race,” he noted. “While we may not always be visible in the upper echelons of the grid, his ability to execute flawless weekends under immense pressure speaks volumes.”

For instance, in a standout performance at the Melbourne Grand Prix, Tsunoda secured a P5 start in qualifying—his best result ever. He also showcased his resilience by finishing P6 in the Sprint Race in China while facing relentless challenges from faster cars tailing him.

Tsunoda's rapid ascension is a clear indicator of his readiness to compete at the highest levels of motorsport. With the backing of Red Bull and the mentorship of experienced teammates, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this young driver will continue to evolve in the remaining races of the season. It’s not just a new chapter for Tsunoda; it’s a thrilling race to the top for one of F1’s most promising talents.