Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Tsunoda Seeks Answers After Red Bull Tyre-Pressure Blunder Ruins Las Vegas Weekend

Tsunoda is seeking an explanation following Laurent Mekies' admission of a costly qualifying error.

Overview

  • Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies conceded the team set incorrect tyre pressures on Tsunoda’s car in Q1, describing it as a big mistake.
  • The team then breached parc fermé to adjust set-up and fit a new power unit, which mandated a pit-lane start.
  • Red Bull opted for an early stop to gain free air as a higher-risk strategy, but a Virtual Safety Car was triggered immediately after Tsunoda pitted.
  • Tsunoda finished 14th on track, later classified 12th after both McLarens were disqualified, extending his scoreless run to three races and leaving him 17th in the standings.
  • Tsunoda said his practice pace was strong and at times ahead of Max Verstappen’s, while separate reports suggest his seat security is in question with a possible Hadjar promotion.