Yuki Tsunoda suffers nightmare early qualifying exit

Yuki Tsunoda will start his Red Bull debut from 15th on the grid, following a nightmare early qualifying elimination at the Japanese Grand Prix.

The Japanese driver had looked strong during free practice and was consistently within three-tenths of Max Verstappen; however, his pace disappeared at the Suzuka Circuit. 

Tsunoda failed to progress to Q3 by a comfortable margin and even qualified behind Liam Lawson, who he replaced at Red Bull. 

Lawson qualified one position ahead of Tsunoda in 14th, with it having also marked the New Zealander's first time this season progressing past Q1. 

There was a considerable difference in rear wing downforce for Tsunoda and Verstappen, particularly for the former who had it appeared had a slower car.