---
title: "Tsunoda to drive for AlphaTauri in Abu Dhabi young driver test"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2020/12/08/tsunoda-to-drive-for-alphatauri-in-abu-dhabi-young-driver-test/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Hamilton Lyndon-Griffiths"
section: "F1 News"
published: "2020-12-08T10:48:22Z"
modified: "2020-12-08T10:48:32Z"
---

# Tsunoda to drive for AlphaTauri in Abu Dhabi young driver test

Yuki Tsunoda has moved a step closer to securing a Formula 1 seat for 2021 after AlphaTauri announced he will drive the AT01 in the young driver test in Abu Dhabi.

Tsunoda endured an impressive debut season in Formula 2 with Carlin, finishing third in the drivers’ standings with three victories.

The Honda junior driver is set to join the F1 grid next year, having secured enough FIA superlicense points, and is expected to partner 2020 Italian Grand Pix winner Pierre Gasly.

Tsunoda recently tested a 2018-spec Toro Rosso at Imola, completing over 350km that left the Faenza-based outfit impressed with his performance.

“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,” said AlphaTauri boss Franz Tost.

“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.”

Tsunoda reported his first experience in an F1 car was a “whole different world” in comparison to F2, and the Japanese driver is keen to use the test to further enhance his development as a driver.

“I am really looking forward to testing with Scuderia AlphaTauri. 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,” Tsunoda said.

“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.”