Daniel Ricciardo reveals ‘biggest frustration’ since F1 return

Daniel Ricciardo opened up about his frustrations since returning to the grid with RB.

Daniel Ricciardo reveals ‘biggest frustration’ since F1 return

Daniel Ricciardo (Via: Imago)

Daniel Ricciardo has fought for his F1 career since he parted ways with McLaren in 2022. The Australian has had only a few good performances in 2024, with his best finish being fourth position in the Miami GP sprint race. Recently he revealed his biggest frustration since his return to the grid.

Daniel Ricciardo during an interview revealed not being consistent in his performance is what frustrates him. He admitted that he could perform very well, but the real challenge was figuring out how to do it consistently. The Australian believed if he could achieve consistency in improving his skills, he would walk the path of success. Despite this frustration, the 35-year-old remained more positive than negative, focusing on his potential rather than his setbacks. He acknowledged the difficulty in maintaining high performance but highlighted that he had confidence in his abilities to bounce back.

It’s a frustration because I look at myself in the mirror and say I can do this very, very well so how do I make sure I do it consistently? Because if I do, I’m laughing. But it’s more positive than negative.
Daniel Ricciardo told F1.com
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Ricciardo stated that there will be a day when he won’t be able to perform as well, but he preferred having occasional good days because they show he still has the ability to do something great. He believed it depends on him to find a way to perform well more often. The 35-year-old explained that he knows he won’t always be at his best. However, he valued those one-off good performances because they prove he still has the potential to achieve great results. Daniel Ricciardo stated these good days are crucial for him because it motivates him to perform better in the next races.

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There will be a day when I won’t be able to do it as good, but I’m much rather have these sporadic good days that it shows I’ve still got those capabilities to do something great – and then it’s up to me to unlock it more often.
Daniel Ricciardo added

Daniel Ricciardo claims performance in upcoming races will decide his future

Daniel Ricciardo accepts that his performance in the upcoming races will ultimately decide his future. The Australian knows these races are crucial for him, so he constantly reminds himself to stay motivated and perform well. He believed there’s no other reason that could affect his future at F1 as much as his performance. Taking this into consideration, Ricciardo stays motivated to improve and prove his abilities knowing his success and future in the sport depends on how well he races. Liam Lawson is rumored to be in the running for the Australian’s seat.

Yes, I believe so, And that’s what I’m telling myself. I don’t see any other reasons.
Daniel Ricciardo stated
Daniel Ricciardo
Daniel Ricciardo (via IMAGO)

Ricciardo stated the sport has become very competitive now. He agreed that marketing and business are important, but the most crucial factors are the timings on the track. Ricciardo believed the stopwatch is the true measure for success, showing which driver is performing well. The Australian reckoned achieving good lap times is the best way to extend his career in the sport. By focusing on improving his performance and results, he can secure his place in F1 and increase the chances that his current team will retain him for the next season.

The sport is so competitive now. Yes, there’s marketing and other things involved in this sport/business. But at the end of the day, the stopwatch doesn’t lie – and that’s my best way to keep doing this for longer.
Daniel Ricciardo added

Certainly, Daniel Ricciardo admits that the only factor for him to stay in F1 is performing better. If he fails to show his potential and abilities, his team might release him, and no other team would choose him as their driver, or he might become a reserve driver for another team. Fans are rooting for the Honey Badger to get back in his prime and present his long lost incredible performance.

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