F1 driver Yuki Tsunoda recounts being detained by US border officials
Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda, representing Racing Bulls SpA, shared a surprising story about being detained at a U.S. airport ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, according to The Sun. The Japanese racer revealed he was held for three hours and interrogated by border officials before finally being allowed entry into the country.
Tsunoda was traveling to Las Vegas for a promotional event, but nearly faced denial of entry. He was taken to a separate room where he was not permitted to have anyone accompany him to explain the situation. Furthermore, he was not allowed to make any phone calls. The driver admitted feeling under intense pressure during the ordeal.
"Actually, I nearly got sent back home. Everything is all good now, luckily I am here now. I had the visas and everything," Tsunoda recounted.
The exact reason for the heightened scrutiny remains unclear. Tsunoda speculated that his casual attire—he was wearing pajamas—might have made him look less like a professional Formula 1 driver, raising suspicions.
In the current F1 season, Tsunoda ranks 11th in the drivers’ standings. The championship leader is Max Verstappen.
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
