Yuki Tsunoda, the pint-sized powerhouse from Japan, has taken the Formula 1 world by storm with his fearless driving, fiery personality, and unrelenting determination. Born on May 11, 2000, in Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Tsunoda represents a new generation of talent in a sport that demands precision, grit, and adaptability. As the first Japanese driver to grace the F1 grid since Kamui Kobayashi in 2014, he carries the hopes of a nation eager to see one of its own etch their name into the annals of motorsport history. With the backing of Honda and Red Bull, Tsunoda’s journey from karting prodigy to Racing Bulls’ de facto team leader has been nothing short of meteoric. His rapid rise through the ranks—going from Japanese F4 to an F1 seat in just over three years—speaks volumes about his raw talent and relentless work ethic. Now, entering his fifth season in 2025, Tsunoda continues to captivate fans with his on-track exploits and off-track charm.
Here are six fascinating facts that highlight the unique story of this dynamic driver.
1. A lightning-fast climb to Formula 1
Tsunoda’s ascent to the pinnacle of motorsport is one of the fastest in recent memory. After starting his single-seater career in Japanese F4 in 2016, he arrived in Europe in 2019 with no prior knowledge of its challenging circuits. Despite a modest start in FIA Formula 3 with Jenzer Motorsport, where he finished ninth, Tsunoda exploded onto the scene in 2020 with Carlin in Formula 2. He secured third in the championship with three wins, four pole positions, and seven podiums—all in his debut season.
2. The shortest driver on the grid
Standing at just 5 feet 3 inches (159 cm) and weighing around 54 kg, Tsunoda holds the distinction of being the shortest and lightest driver in Formula 1 today. His compact stature gives him a unique advantage in the cockpit, where every kilogram counts toward performance. However, it also means his car requires custom adjustments to fit his frame comfortably. Far from being a hindrance, Tsunoda’s size has become part of his identity, earning him affection from fans who admire how he punches well above his weight—both literally and figuratively—on the track.
3. A passion for food fuels his drive
While most F1 drivers are known for their strict diets, Tsunoda’s love for food sets him apart. He’s openly shared how much he enjoys the culinary perks of the F1 lifestyle, from Italian dishes at Racing Bulls’ hospitality to Japanese cuisine courtesy of Honda. In a 2021 interview, he cheekily admitted that driving the fastest cars in the world was great, but the food in the paddock was a close second.
4. Inspired by a World Champion
Tsunoda’s racing number, 22, isn’t just a random choice—it’s a tribute to his childhood hero, 2009 F1 World Champion Jenson Button. Initially, Tsunoda wanted number 11, which he used in karting, but it was taken by Sergio Perez. Doubling it to 22, he honored Button, whose smooth driving style and championship pedigree left a lasting impression on the young Japanese racer.
5. A cult hero with a potty mouth
Tsunoda’s fiery radio rants have become the stuff of legend in F1 circles. Known for his colorful language and unfiltered emotion, he’s flipped stereotypes of the reserved Japanese athlete on their head. His debut season in 2021 introduced fans to his passionate outbursts, often laced with expletives, as he vented frustrations or celebrated triumphs. This impish charm, paired with his baby-faced appearance, has turned him into a cult favorite.
6. Japan’s best hope for F1 glory
In the 75-year history of Formula 1, no Japanese driver has ever won a Grand Prix—a statistic Tsunoda is determined to change. Supported by Honda’s Formula Dream Project since 2016 and Red Bull’s junior program since 2019, he’s been groomed as Japan’s next big thing. His career-best fourth-place finish at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and a stunning P5 in qualifying at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix show he’s got the pace to compete at the front.