Red Bull Criticizes FIA After Verstappen Penalty, Yuki Tsunoda Shines in Abu Dhabi Test
The 2024 Formula 1 season wrapped up in dramatic fashion at the Yas Marina Circuit, as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix became the center of controversy and thrilling performances. Reigning world champion Max Verstappen’s race unraveled almost immediately, while Yuki Tsunoda used the post-season test to make a bold statement about his capabilities behind the wheel of Red Bull’s championship-winning RB20.
Verstappen’s race turned chaotic from the outset, with a misjudged move at Turn 1 resulting in a collision with Oscar Piastri. The incident sent both drivers into spins, effectively ruining their races. The FIA stewards deemed Verstappen wholly to blame, issuing him a 10-second penalty along with two penalty points on his super license. The latter sanction pushed Verstappen closer to the threshold for a race ban, amplifying the fallout. A visibly frustrated Verstappen lashed out over team radio, calling the stewards “stupid idiots,” a remark that sparked sharp reactions across the paddock and beyond.
Former F1 driver and pundit Martin Brundle staunchly defended the stewards’ decision, emphasizing that the rules were applied fairly. “You don’t run into other people, and you won’t get penalties,” he remarked, critiquing Verstappen’s outburst as misplaced. However, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was quick to defend his driver, suggesting that frustration in high-pressure moments is natural and noting that F1’s unique transparency often amplifies emotional reactions. “Radio messages are broadcast to millions. Not every message needs to be shared,” Horner argued, though his stance drew comparisons to his earlier criticisms of Sebastian Vettel for similar behavior in 2016.
While Verstappen’s penalty dominated headlines, Yuki Tsunoda seized the spotlight during the Abu Dhabi post-season test. The Japanese driver, who has been part of Red Bull’s junior program since 2021, received a rare opportunity to pilot the championship-winning RB20. Tsunoda impressed with a massive 127 laps and expressed how seamlessly the car suited his driving style. “You can physically feel why the RB20 has been fighting for a championship this year. It feels like a very different car to drive,” he remarked, showcasing his adaptability and skill.
Despite Tsunoda’s strong performance, Horner tempered expectations regarding a potential Red Bull seat. The test, he explained, was largely symbolic, arranged in collaboration with Honda, Red Bull’s engine supplier. “It’s good to give him the opportunity to work with Red Bull Racing engineers and see how he performs,” Horner stated, adding that the session was more about experience than evaluation for a promotion.
Tsunoda, however, made the most of his time, highlighting his confidence in the car even during long runs. “If you don’t have confidence in the car, you can’t test its limits. I’m really happy with my performance today,” he said. Yet, the young driver remains frustrated with Red Bull’s internal dynamics, expressing how he feels overshadowed by other talents within the program. Tsunoda candidly remarked, “It’s just the usual story in that team or in the Red Bull family. It is what it is.”
Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi post-season test provided a glimpse into the future of F1 as teams and drivers focused on preparations for the 2025 season. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc dominated the afternoon session with the fastest lap of 1:23.510, reinforcing the team’s pace. Rising stars like Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli also turned heads with competitive times despite battling illness, further fueling speculation about the sport’s next generation of talent. Williams’ new recruit Carlos Sainz impressed in his first outing with the team, clocking the fastest morning time, signaling his readiness to lead the team into a new era.
As the dust settles on a thrilling season, the contrasting narratives from Abu Dhabi encapsulate Formula 1’s unique blend of drama, talent, and high stakes. Verstappen’s penalty has ignited debates over driver accountability, while Tsunoda’s stellar test performance hints at untapped potential. With the winter break underway, the spotlight now shifts to how teams will build on these storylines heading into 2025, ensuring that F1’s relentless pace of evolution never slows.
