Yuki Tsunoda

Japan has had plenty of Formula 1 heroes to worship over the years. But does Yuki Tsunoda have what it takes to become the country’s first World Champion? If he can drive as fast as he reached F1 then he’s in with a chance. The 22-year-old went from Japanese F4 to his drive at Alpha Tauri in the space of just three years. Since his points-scoring debut in 2021, Yuki has certainly caught the eye of many. But 2023 is a huge year. With Pierre Gasly leaving for Alpine, Tsunoda is now the team leader. How he performs this season will have a huge impact on his future in the sport. Is he ready for the challenge? Yuki tells Tom Clarkson what he's learned from his idol Fernando Alonso, why Daniel Ricciardo’s old trainer has made him fitter than ever before, and how he’s trying to be calmer on team radio. Plus, Yuki reveals why he loves being famous. Follow, rate and review F1 Beyond The Grid and share this episode using #F1BeyondTheGrid. Related episodes: Nyck de Vries, Yuki's AlphaTauri teammate  This episode is sponsored by:  Babbel: go to babbel.com/podcast23, and use promo code BEYOND for an extra three months free. Athletic Greens: get hold of a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D AND 5 free travel packs with your first purchase. Go to athleticgreens.com/f1btg.

Yuki Tsunoda, a rising star in Formula 1, shares insights into his impressive progress in the 2024 season. He discusses how racing alongside the experienced Daniel Ricciardo has sharpened his skills. Yuki reveals his ambitions for a promotion to Red Bull Racing and the importance of fitness and training in achieving success. He also reflects on managing stress, the balance of personal passions like wakeboarding, and the significant impact of teamwork on performance. With humor, he talks about the joys of celebrating wins with favorite foods.

F1 loves Japan: the passionate fans, the stunning racetracks, and the exciting drivers. Yuki Tsunoda wants to be his country’s first F1 winner. In this clip, recorded during Yuki’s rookie season in 2021, he told Tom Clarkson about his love of Tokyo and how former Japanese racers have helped him in his career. Yuki talks food, swearing and friendships in the full interview. Listen right here.