Qualifying at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix took a dramatic turn on Saturday when Red Bull’s Yuki Tsunoda was involved in a severe crash at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari. The session was abruptly paused with just 12 minutes remaining in Q1 after the Japanese driver lost control of his car approaching Turn 6.
The crash was particularly alarming as Tsunoda’s RB21 struck the kerb, launching the car into a full 360-degree spin before flipping over and landing upside down. Thanks to the roll hoop, the vehicle eventually returned to an upright position, preventing a more serious scenario.
Despite the extent of the impact, Tsunoda was fortunately able to exit the wreckage on his own. Although his car sustained heavy damage, the 25-year-old appeared to be uninjured and was promptly taken to the medical center for evaluation as a precaution.
The damage was not limited to the vehicle alone—crash barriers around the track also took a hit, underscoring the force of the accident. Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, ensuring safety protocols were followed and that Tsunoda received immediate medical attention.
Since his surprise entry into the Red Bull team earlier this season, replacing Liam Lawson after only two races, Tsunoda has faced a challenging stint. His time with Red Bull has so far yielded only six points from four Grand Prix appearances, and this crash further compounds his difficult start.
While Tsunoda walked away seemingly unscathed, the event raised concerns regarding car stability and the demanding conditions of the Imola circuit. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks drivers take each time they step into an F1 cockpit, particularly on such high-speed tracks.
This incident is still evolving, and updates are expected as Red Bull evaluates the full extent of the damage to the car and Tsunoda’s fitness for future races. Fans and teams alike will be monitoring closely to see how this affects his participation going forward.
As the motorsport world reacts, supporters expressed both relief and concern—thankful for Tsunoda’s safety but aware of the implications such crashes can have on a driver’s confidence and season trajectory. More information will be reported as it becomes available.