Tsunoda confirmed for F1 Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi with Alpha Tauri

Fresh from sealing third in the Formula 2 Drivers’ Championship, Scuderia Alpha Tauri have confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda will test for the team at the Young Driver Test in Abu Dhabi on December, 15.

Tsunoda enjoyed his first taste of Formula 1 machinery in November when running in the team’s 2018 car at Imola, completing 350km and he’ll now get the opportunity to run in the 2020 AT01.

“I am really looking forward to testing with Scuderia AlphaTauri,” said Tsunoda. “I enjoyed driving one of the team’s 2018 cars at Imola a few weeks back and I can’t wait to try the current car, taking part in an official test session with all the other cars on track.

“I really appreciate how everyone at Scuderia AlphaTauri has helped me to prepare for this session, and I also want to thank Red Bull and Dr. Marko for giving me this opportunity.

“During the session, my focus will be on following the team’s instructions and giving my feedback to the engineers. It will also be a chance for me to learn as much as possible and help my own personal development.”

The Red Bull junior finished third in the 2020 championship, taking seven podiums, including three wins. This saw the 20-year-old clinch the Anthoine Hubert Award for the highest placed rookie.

Team Principal Franz Tost added: “Yuki showed at the test in Imola that he is a fast learner, able to easily get familiar with the car and was able to constantly improve every lap, so we decided to have him test with us at the Young Driver Test on the Tuesday after the race.

“I’m convinced he will make a good step forward having a full day in the car, and this time he will be driving the AT01, so his feedback will be even more valuable for our engineers.

“It’s great to see that the Red Bull Driver Programme can prepare young drivers so well, and I have no doubts he will prove his talent once again.”