(Motorsports news) AlphaTauri was at the bottom of the team standings prior to the United States Grand Prix last month. With only five rounds remaining, it was seven points behind ninth-placed Haas. For Austin, however, the team presented a significant overhaul package that included a new floor, redesigned engine cover bodywork, as well as suspension and chassis geometry to boost downforce.
AlphaTauri has scored in all three rounds since its debut, leapfrogging Haas and Alfa Romeo to take eighth place. It is now only seven points behind Williams, who has halted development of its car. Given the improved performance and consistent scoring, Tsunoda reckons AlphaTauri is now a “dark horse.”
He said of the upturn: “It’s a big surprise. I think we’re right now a dark horse, especially compared to our other competitors. So, I think it’s good. “So far, we are scoring points three races in a row. So, a very good rhythm. “We just need to keep doing this for the rest of the races.” We are now in seventh place in the team championship. I believe that is feasible, and we will try our best.”
Daniel Ricciardo shined in Mexico, qualifying fourth and finishing eighth. Then, in Brazil, Tsunoda took advantage of crashes and retirements to finish tenth in the GP. He was, however, fortunate in that he dipped a wheel onto the grass to commence a half spin. “That was a big mistake,” said the Japanese driver. It was a little frightening. I poop my pants! Fortunately, I did not DNF.”
Tsunoda continued: “Inside the car, I feel quite similar. Obviously, I feel better, I feel more the balance. “The results say everything. We definitely made a big step, especially the upgrades we had in Austin. “Before Austin, we didn’t score enough points often. Now, we’re scoring three races in a row. That shows everything.”
