Tsunoda, who debuted in 2021, has surprised the squad with his “undoubtful natural talent and constant improvement” and “ability to integrate into the team”.
Daniel Ricciardo, who is presently out with a broken hand but pleased the team when he raced for them in Hungary and Belgium before the summer break, will join the Japanese racer as a teammate. Ricciardo is currently sidelined with a broken hand.
Ricciardo’s “personal attitude and racing experience will be precious assets in 2024,” according to AlphaTauri, who noted that the Australian driver had competed for the team in 2012 and 2013 when they were still known as Toro Rosso. Since then, Ricciardo has gone on to win eight Grand Prix races.
Although Lawson has performed admirably as a super replacement for Ricciardo in the past three Grands Prix, including scoring his first points in his most recent race in Singapore, he was not offered a full-time racing seat with the team for the 2024 season.
Tomás Evaristo / Unsplash.com
Principal Franz Tost said: “Next year, the technical regulations remain largely unchanged and it was therefore logical to go for continuity in our driver line-up too.”
“I am very pleased with the development that Yuki has shown over the last two and a half years with our team and with Daniel’s great race-winning experience we will have one of the most competitive driver pairings on the grid in 2024.
“Peter Bayer, AlphaTauri’s new CEO, and Laurent Mekies, AlphaTauri’s incoming Team Principal, will have a wonderful partnership to start the new season off on the right foot in the correct path.
“As for Liam, who has impressed everyone in his races so far, he will definitely help the team in his development role as a third driver, and I’m sure that he will have a future in Formula 1 very soon.”
“I’m so happy to announce that I will be staying with Scuderia AlphaTauri for the 2024 Formula 1 season. I’m looking forward to continuing to fight and collaborate with the team and Daniel.
“Obviously, I’ll push as much as possible for the rest of the season and beyond, to progress as a driver. I’m grateful for Red Bull and Honda, for continuing to support and believe in me, and very happy and thankful to continue the partnership.” Yuki said.
“I’m stoked to be driving with Yuki again next year and continuing the journey with Scuderia Alpha Tauri. Following the progress we have already made and the plans for the future, it’s an exciting time for the team. We are building and it is a great feeling. There is a lot of work to do, but we are heading in the right direction and there is a lot to look forward to. Bring on 2024!” Daniel Ricciardo added.
After Ricciardo recuperates, Lawson, the youngest driver on the grid, will focus on testing, simulator sessions, and attending all races as a reserve in 2024.