For the Visa Cash App RB F1 Team, Saturday in Baku was a day they'd like to forget.
Yuki Tsuda qualified for the second segment but finished 12th at the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, a provisional position (he could move up one place if Pierre Gasly is disqualified during post-qualifying inspection), but not the position the driver had hoped for.
“It's disappointing to be eliminated in Q2. In terms of performance it wasn't what we expected,” Tsunoda said in the team's post-qualifying report. “We didn't have enough pace and it was quite difficult to drive, but we did our best. Tyre degradation seems to be more difficult than usual so tyre management will be key tomorrow.”
On the other side of the garage the situation was even more frustrating.
Daniel Ricciardo was eliminated in Q1 and will start from 16th place unless he is promoted due to a penalty.
The Australian driver admitted he was somewhat surprised by Saturday's result.
“Qualifying was close today. I went a bit deep into Turn 4 which hindered my exit so I had some time left there. Other than that, the lap wasn't too bad and I was surprised to get into Q1,” Ricciardo said. “Everyone was very close for the positions after one lap and it's rare to do such a long lap on a street circuit. It's frustrating to be out in Q1 but the gaps are small here.”
However, although overtaking may be difficult on the streets of Baku, both drivers expressed optimism they can make up for it on Sunday.
“Compared to Monza, the new floor is definitely working. It feels completely different. The team has done a good job analysing the data,” Tsunoda said. “Other tracks might be a different story, but I think the next few tracks will be similar to this one, so I'm looking forward to it. We will continue to push for performance, but we'll stay calm and do what we can tomorrow.”
“But overtaking is possible on this circuit and if you looked at the F2 race today there were chances, so I'm optimistic,” Ricciardo said.
“I'll try to do better tomorrow. Anything can happen in this race.”
