MIAMI, Fla. — Red Bull is set to start from the pit lane after making suspension changes, which they attributed to “inadequate communication.” This decision followed a qualifying session where they placed 18th during Saturday’s Formula 1 sprint race at the Miami Grand Prix.
Tsunoda managed to record his first flying lap in SQ1 but found himself in the drop zone ahead of his second attempt. He was actually trailing teammate Max Verstappen as he approached the start/finish line for that crucial final lap.
Unfortunately, he couldn’t make it before time expired, meaning he ended up taking the checkered flag while still in SQ1.
“A lot of cars really impacted my chances,” Tsunoda remarked in an interview with the official F1 channel after the session.
“The first lap… yeah, I mean, there was a significant lockup in the last corner, but honestly, the lap had pretty much slipped away from me after Turn 1 due to the car at the pit exit. That’s just how it goes sometimes.”
“Communication wasn’t great either, and overall, I just didn’t manage to qualify properly,” he added.
Before any changes to the suspension were implemented, Tsunoda expressed some cautious optimism about the situation at the pit lane.
“It’s been a while since I’ve felt this way,” he said on Friday. “I’m definitely going to give it my all; anything can happen here. I’ll stay positive and aim high.”
The weather in Miami has been a factor as well, with rain pouring down all morning. The F1 Academy qualifying session proceeded smoothly, with some drivers opting for wet tire compounds. This scenario could present an opportunity for Tsunoda if chances arise.
