Yuki Tsunoda was enjoying a relaxing day on the beach in Greece when an unexpected call from Red Bull on Tuesday changed his plans, informing the Japanese driver that he would compete in this weekend’s Dutch Formula One Grand Prix for Racing Bulls.

Tsunoda, who lost his race seat last season, was called into action after Red Bull regular Isack Hadjar suffered a wrist injury during training.

As a result, Liam Lawson has been promoted from Racing Bulls to Red Bull to replace Hadjar, while Tsunoda will return to the F1 grid alongside rookie Arvid Lindblad.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Tsunoda revealed just how unexpectedly he received the news.

“I was with my manager, and also other friends, in Greece spending time together, and I was on the beach,” Tsunoda said.

The Japanese driver explained that he had continued training during his break before receiving the call that would send him back to the Formula One paddock.

“I was still training and everything. At the moment I received a call from my manager… I was pretty relaxed, watching the nice beautiful ocean, and I just suddenly got a call, ‘OK, you have to go to the UK.’”

Despite the sudden change of plans, Tsunoda said he was determined to make the most of the opportunity he had been waiting for.

“I was dying to have this kind of moment. I don’t really mind which car I’m driving, to be honest. I’m already grateful enough to have a seat,” said the Japanese driver.

Tsunoda had potentially been hoping to take over Hadjar’s place as the reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls, but he is now set for a return to competitive action with Racing Bulls.

“Both teams are performing well, especially Racing Bulls this year,” he added.

The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort marks the first race weekend following Formula One’s August break and will feature the sprint format, giving Tsunoda an immediate challenge upon his return.

He must also quickly adapt to the current generation of cars and a different engine era, making his unexpected comeback an intriguing storyline heading into the weekend.