HALF TERM REPORT: RB – Can a strong start help them to keep their midfield rivals at bay?

Qualifying head-to-head

Tsunoda 9 – Ricciardo 5

It has been advantage Tsunoda in qualifying so far, with the 24-year-old outqualifying Ricciardo on nine out of 14 occasions.

However, while Tsunoda led the way during the earlier part of the season, Ricciardo has had the edge more frequently across recent races, having put himself ahead on four of the six last events prior to the summer break.

Ricciardo also secured the team’s best grid slot of the year in Canada, where – on only his second Q3 appearance up to that point of 2024 – took a surprise fifth place.

READ MORE: Traffic lights, tacos and moustaches – Getting to know the real Yuki Tsunoda

Race head-to-head

Tsunoda 8 – Ricciardo 5

Tsunoda has also come out on top in terms of the race day head-to-head, having taken a better result than his team mate at eight Grands Prix so far, while Ricciardo has had the stronger finish on five occasions. China is not included here, with both drivers recording a DNF in Shanghai.

As such, Tsunoda is responsible for 22 of the team’s 34 points. But, as is the case with qualifying, Ricciardo has displayed signs of progress as the season has developed and has crossed the line ahead of Tsunoda more often during recent weekends.