Tsunoda's 'key' to unlocking rare points finish in Belgian GP

Yuki Tsunoda feels he was able to end his point-less run in Formula 1 owing to a 'key' first stint in the Belgian Grand Prix.

Tsunoda finished 10th at Spa-Francorchamps for his first points finish since Azerbaijan, this being the third time he has finished P10 in 2023.

The Japanese racer has scored all three points for the AlphaTauri team this season and felt his run at Spa was built on the strength of his opening stint, and the fact that the team had dedicated their focus to Sunday's Grand Prix on the Sprint weekend.

Tsunoda's key

"The start was good, and in the first stint, we were flying," Tsunoda told media including RacingNews365 after his first-ever points finish at Spa.

"The first stint was key to scoring points as Alpine was still much faster than us, and the Aston Martin was very fast.

"We also had a bit of luck with cars ahead retiring, but we were still able to finish P10, which was good.

"I'm really happy, the team did a fantastic job.

"We were aiming the set-up for Sunday, so I knew we were going to struggle in the rain, but it was not too bad and we were able to P11 [in Qualifying].

"We were able to maximise the car performance today. In the last couple of races, I have struggled a lot and [Saturday] was a really horrible day, so I am definitely happy.

"It is a positive way to head into the summer break."