Tsunoda’s struggles continue with Q1 exit at F1 Austrian GP qualifying

Yuki Tsunoda revealed he is “really tired” of starting Formula 1 grands prix towards the back after another disappointing result in Austria.

The Red Bull has struggled in his first eight weekends with the team since moving from sister outfit Racing Bulls, having scored just seven points in that time.

His woes continued at the Red Bull Ring on Saturday, as Tsunoda suffered a Q1 exit and will start 18th for Sunday’s Austrian Grand Prix.

“Really frustrating. I’m really tired of starting with a P18 or P19,” said Tsunoda. “I was expecting at least Q3 today.

“I know this car feels good and, just first push already felt really good as well. So, yeah, just somehow, I guess, with this kind of stage that I’m in, I’m happy with the confidence and I’m sure I’m in the right direction in terms of how I’m approaching it and progress.

“But still, I think, with this kind of very narrow window car, you just want to have [a] consistent car as much as possible. And, obviously, I guess Max [Verstappen] kind of reported the same in Q2, but at least he knows about this car, how to handle it.

“So, even with that kind of bit of surprise between the runs and everything, he can probably adapt within the lap.

“But, myself, especially like that kind of difference I felt between that first run and second run, I’m not in the level that I can adjust fully in the lap or maximise it within the package, which I was doing and also I am not even in the level that I was doing in the VCARB.

“So, I mean, it’s just normal, but every time in qualifying, it’s a bit of frustration.”

The result means Tsunoda’s strategic options for the grand prix are now limited, with it pretty certain which Pirelli tyre he will start with.

“It’s only soft tyre, so it’s not a medium tyre, it’s a hard tyre,” he added. “I guess it’s the tyre that other competitors are going to use mainly, or I’m going to use mainly.

“It’s not really positive that having lots of soft tyres in the tank.”