RB Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda has expressed his team’s ambition to compete with Red Bull at the forefront of the grid in the future. Despite struggling with an uncompetitive car in the early part of last season, the team’s alliance with Red Bull and the addition of their rear suspension helped improve their performance. With the team’s rebranding from AlphaTauri to RB, they aim to maximize their relationship with Red Bull within the current regulations. Tsunoda hopes that their collaboration will lead to better results and the ability to challenge Red Bull. RB will also be expanding its presence in the United Kingdom by moving its aero department to Milton Keynes, where Red Bull Racing is located. Tsunoda believes that working closely with Red Bull, a dominant force in recent years, will provide valuable knowledge and experience to help them compete with the top cars.
In a departure from its previous name, RB has introduced Laurent Mekies as the new Team Principal, taking over from Franz Tost, who retired at the end of last year.
RB also recently announced the addition of several new members to its team. Alan Permane, formerly the Sporting Director at Alpine, has been appointed as the Racing Director, while Guillaume Cattelani has taken on the role of Deputy Technical Director. Additionally, Tim Goss, the former FIA Technical Director, will assume the position of RB’s Chief Technical Officer starting in October.
Tsunoda is excited about these recent changes and specifically highlights Permane’s experience working in a championship-winning environment as a sign of RB’s ambitious goals.
“This is my first experience with such a significant change,” he stated. “There are many things that are evolving, including new team members.
“We will need to adapt to this new environment, but so far, there haven’t been any major surprises. The individuals joining the team bring a wealth of experience, such as Alan Permane.
“These additions will contribute to our progress and also help me become a better driver. Permane has previously won championships, and his winning mentality is exactly what the team needs.”
However, both Tsunoda and Mekies caution that the extensive changes within the team could lead to a slow start to the 2024 season.
“With so many changes, involving prominent figures and numerous new team members, expectations are higher,” Tsunoda admitted. “At the same time, it’s more challenging to adapt and integrate all these individuals into one cohesive team.
“Having a large team is beneficial, but they also need time to settle in and perform at their best. I don’t anticipate a stellar season right from the first race.
“Laurent is being realistic and dedicating the initial races of the championship to allowing people to adjust to the team, establishing a strong foundation for the future. Then, we hope that the car’s performance will be positive.”
According to the Source motorsportweek.com