Breaking: Red Bull issue Yuki Tsunoda health update after ma… read more

Red Bull Racing has provided a positive health update on Yuki Tsunoda following his alarming crash during qualifying for the Imola Grand Prix. Early in Q1, Tsunoda lost control of his RB-Honda exiting the Tamburello sector and spun into the high-speed Villeneuve chicane. The car skidded over the kerbs, flipped into the gravel, and came to rest upside down against the tyre barrier. Emergency crews responded quickly, and the session was red-flagged.

Thankfully, Tsunoda was able to exit the car unaided and was taken to the track’s medical center for evaluation. Red Bull later confirmed via social media that he had undergone precautionary checks and was given a clean bill of health. The news brought a wave of relief to fans and team members who had witnessed the dramatic incident.

Despite avoiding injury, the crash ended Tsunoda’s qualifying efforts. With limited time left after the session resumed and his car needing major checks, he couldn’t set a competitive lap time. Race stewards have allowed him to start Sunday’s race, but from the back of the grid. At Imola, where overtaking is notoriously difficult, this presents a tough challenge.

So far in the 2025 season, Red Bull has accumulated 105 points, but Tsunoda has only contributed six. A mix of misfortune, setup issues, and strong competition has limited his impact. The crash is the latest hurdle in a season where the 25-year-old is aiming to secure a long-term seat alongside Max Verstappen.

Verstappen, meanwhile, had a strong Saturday, qualifying second behind McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by just 0.021 seconds. With Imola’s tight layout and front-row start, he’s well positioned to fight for the win and build on his early-season success.

Tsunoda’s race on Sunday will require a careful mix of strategy and persistence. With short DRS zones and limited passing opportunities, Red Bull may opt for an aggressive tyre strategy—possibly starting on hard tyres and switching to mediums to gain positions during pit stops. Rain, often a factor in this region, could also play a role in shaking up the order.

While the lack of injury is a major relief, the crash adds to an already difficult season for Tsunoda. Sunday’s race offers him a chance to regain confidence, gather valuable data, and potentially stage a strong recovery. The paddock, reassured by his safety, will now look to see if he can turn the setback into a standout performance.