New driver in the paddock

Suzuka, Japanese Grand Prix: Another Teamwork success

The evening before the Japanese Grand Prix, Y/n found herself feeling more nervous than usual. Suzuka was a track known for its unforgiving nature and the fact that the championship battle was getting tighter wasn’t helping her nerves. After her debrief with the engineers, Y/n headed back to her hotel, feeling the weight of the race settling in.

Back in her hotel room, she grabbed her phone and dialed her mom’s number. The phone rang twice before she heard her mother’s familiar voice.

“Hey, sweetheart!” her mom’s voice came through, instantly soothing some of her nerves.

“Hey, Mom,” Y/n said, sitting down on the edge of the bed. “I just wanted to hear your voice. I’m feeling a bit… I don’t know, on edge about tomorrow.”

There was a pause before her mom replied, “It’s normal, honey. You’ve got a big race ahead. But you’ve done the work, you’ve prepared, and you’re ready. Don’t overthink it. Just go out there and do what you do best.”

Y/n sighed. “I know. I just keep thinking about how much is at stake.”

Her mom’s voice softened. “And that’s what makes you so strong. You care about what you’re doing, and that’s why you’re going to be amazing tomorrow. Remember, your dad and I are always so proud of you, no matter what happens.”

Y/n smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. “Thanks, Mom. I needed to hear that. I’ll give you guys a call after the race.”

“You’d better,” her mom said with a laugh. “Now get some sleep. You’ve got a championship to win.”

Before hanging up, Y/n dialed her dad, and his tone was much more relaxed. “Hey champ, what’s up?” he asked in his usual casual way.

“I just wanted to talk to you for a bit. I’m feeling the pressure for tomorrow.”

“Ah, come on, you’ve got this,” he said confidently. “Pressure makes diamonds, right? And you’ve been shining all season. Go out there and have fun. Remember why you started racing in the first place.”

Y/n chuckled. “Thanks, Dad. I’ll try not to overthink it.”

“Good. And remember to enjoy it. This is your dream, after all.”

After hanging up, Y/n felt lighter, ready to take on whatever Suzuka would throw at her.

The paddock was buzzing with excitement as the drivers arrived for the pre-race media duties. Y/n had her usual routine—go through the press pen, attend a few interviews, and make sure she stayed focused amidst the chaos.

She was midway through an interview with Sky Sports when one of the reporters asked, “Y/n, you’ve got a tough race ahead. How are you feeling going into it?”

Y/n smiled, keeping her nerves hidden behind a calm exterior. “I’m excited. Suzuka’s a track I’ve always loved, but it’s definitely a challenge. I know it’s going to be a hard-fought race, but I’m ready.”

The next question was more pointed. “There’s been a lot of talk about the team dynamics between you and Max. How’s that playing out heading into today’s race?”

Y/n glanced over at Max, who was doing his own round of interviews. She kept her answer diplomatic. “Max and I have a good working relationship. We both want the best for the team, and we’re both focused on winning. That’s what matters.”

She noticed Max shooting her a glance and giving her a nod, signaling his support despite the questions swirling around their rivalry.

As she finished up with the press, Y/n headed toward the paddock lounge where some of the other drivers were gathered. She exchanged pleasantries with a few of them before Lando approached her with his usual cheeky grin.