Formula 1

F1 News: Yuki Tsunoda Doesn’t Trust The FIA – Here’s Why

AlphaTauri driver Yuki Tsunoda has admitted that he doesn’t trust the FIA to cover F1 Grand Prix weekends as he criticises them as being inconsistent with their punishments.

The Monaco Grand Prix saw Tsunoda impede Kevin Magnussen and was later given his fourth reprimand of the 2022 F1 season. Now, sat just one reprimand away from a 10-place grid penalty, the Japanese driver has spoken out about his feelings for the organisation.

– Red Bull Content Pool

The driver was penalised last year for not being entirely within the while line that marks the pit entry during the Austria GP. In fact, he received two separate penalties for this. But this year, after both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez were seen to do the same thing during the Monaco GP and not receive a penalty, it looks as though the FIA have loosened their rules.

“I’m not trusting of the FIA,” Tsunoda told the press.

“Every time, it’s inconsistent. I already have four reprimands [this season] and last time in Monaco, I still don’t know why.

“It’s not good to say, but other drivers were doing even worse things [than me] and they didn’t have an investigation.

“For me, just stick with what the regulation [says], or just the safest as possible to not get into trouble.

“I don’t think it’s okay that Max and Checo were crossing the line in Monaco, so [that means] we can do it. I think everybody is going to be a different story, and every time is different.

“I think we still have to be within the white line, which was last year’s [rule]. And I don’t want to get a 10-place grid penalty!”

Race director Michael Masi left last year after the controversial ending of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and has been replaced by Eduardo Freitas and Niels Wittich who are sharing the responsibility. While many believe this to be the best move, Tsunoda admits that at least he knew where he stood with Masi.

“[Masi] tried to be consistent and fair as much as possible. For example, white lines and track limits were clearer,” Tsunoda said.

“[In terms of] racing incidents or traffic management, Michael Masi had more experience.

“[Freitas and Wittich] need more time to get used to it or have more experience to make good rules.

“Until then, I just have to survive and not get a penalty!”

Alex Harrington

Alex started racing at a young age so certainly knows his way around a car and a track. He can just about put a sentence together too, which helps. He has a great interest in the latest models, but would throw all of his money at a rusty old French classic and a 300ZX. Contact: [email protected]

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