Scuderia AlphaTauri has confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda will remain with the team for the 2023 season, continuing their partnership that began at the start of 2021.
The Japanese driver burst onto the scene with some impressive performances early in his Formula One career, most notably scoring points on debut with a ninth place finish in Bahrain.
However, in recent times, points-scoring finishes have been few and far between, with the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix, round six of the Championship being the last time he added to his tally.
After a ninth-place finish in FIA Formula 3 in 2019, Tsunoda made the step up to FIA Formula 2 in 2022, where he would finish third and gain a super license to compete in Formula One.
Yuki Tsunoda said: “I want to say a huge thank you to Red Bull, Honda and Scuderia AlphaTauri for continuing to give me the opportunity to drive in F1. Having moved to Italy last year, to be closer to the factory, I really feel part of the team and am glad that I get to carry on racing with them in 2023. Of course, our 2022 season isn’t over yet and we’re still pushing hard in the midfield battle, so I’m fully focused on finishing it on a high and then we will look forward to next year.”
Franz Tost added: “As we’ve seen since he joined us last year, Yuki is a very talented driver and has improved a lot this season. The pace he has shown recently is clear evidence of a steep learning curve, which proves he deserves a seat in F1, and I still expect some strong results from him in the last six races of 2022. As I always say, a driver needs at least three years to fully get to grips with Formula 1, so I’m pleased he’s been given the time to show his full potential. In addition, it’s a testament to Dr. Marko and his driver programme that we’re able to bring these young talents up from the junior categories and develop them. I’d like to join Yuki in thanking Red Bull, AlphaTauri as well as Honda, for their continuous support and for allowing him to stay with us for another year.”
Header Image Credit: Red Bull Racing