F1: Tsunoda might not keep seat for 2023

(GMM) Yuki Tsunoda’s career in Formula 1 is hanging in the balance, his boss has admitted.

Recently, Red Bull confirmed that Pierre Gasly will remain with its second team Alpha Tauri next year – but there was no similar confirmation for his teammate.

Japanese 22-year-old Tsunoda, who was last week called a “problem child” by Red Bull’s top driver manager Dr Helmut Marko, is now working with a psychologist to help him control his emotions during grands prix.

“I like problem children,” team boss Franz Tost said, “because these are the ones you can make something out of.

“I don’t like the holy children,” the Austrian smiled.

Let’s be honest, Mr. Tost. No big check from Japan, no ride in 2023. Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Scuderia AlphaTauri seen during the filming day in Misano, Italy on February 15, 2022 // Samo Vidic

Tost said Tsunoda is still making mistakes because he is in the “development process”. The good news, though, is that he is also “fast”.

“If he continues like he did during the season, apart from crashing, I think that he has a good chance to stay with us,” Tost said when asked about Tsunoda’s chances of a 2023 seat.

“It depends on him. If he shows a good performance he will stay. If he doesn’t show a good performance, he is out. Totally easy.”