Tsunoda Faces 10-Grid Penalty for Red Flag Breach

Red Bull Racing’s Yuki Tsunoda has been handed a 10-place grid penalty for the Canadian Grand Prix following a red flag violation during the third free practice session. In an exclusive SPORTRIK analysis based on official F1 data, the incident involved Tsunoda overtaking Oscar Piastri of McLaren, significantly impacting his starting position. How will this affect his career trajectory?

The breach occurred at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve during FP3 when a red flag was waved due to an issue with Piastri’s car. Traveling at 171 km/h, Tsunoda overtook Piastri, who was moving at just 86 km/h on the left side of the track. According to an official F1 statement, Tsunoda cited concerns about debris from the McLaren, but stewards deemed his action unjustified and a violation of the FIA International Sporting Code.

The 10-place grid penalty means Tsunoda, who qualified 11th, will start from 20th position. Additionally, he received two penalty points on his super license, bringing his total to two within the last 12 months. Tsunoda expressed frustration, calling the decision “unfair” given his damaged car, yet stewards maintained that he should have followed red flag procedures safely.

Since his promotion from Racing Bulls to Red Bull in April 2025, Tsunoda has scored only four points in seven races, adding pressure to his second-driver role. This penalty worsens his situation, especially after showing improved pace in qualifying with the latest RB21 upgrade. As a result, his chances of scoring points in Canada diminish, fueling speculation about his future with the team.

Starting from the back, Tsunoda must execute aggressive overtakes to secure points. Support from Red Bull and further adaptation to the car could be decisive.

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