Daniel Ricciardo reveals his primary goal ahead of dramatic F1 return with AlphaTauri in Hungary
Daniel Ricciardo’s return to F1 was announced last week after he impressed at the Silverstone tire test.
Daniel Ricciardo (Image credit: CNN)
Eight-time Grand Prix winner Daniel Ricciardo previously raced for AlphaTauri in 2012-2013 as Torro Rosso. After his McLaren contract was cut short, the Australian was left without a seat for the 2023 season. However, after his old team fired Nyck de Vries, Ricciardo returned to his old team. His first race back in F1 will be in the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix this weekend.
Eager to contribute and draw upon his experience, Daniel Ricciardo expressed excitement about developing the car. In Budapest, the focus for the honey badger is on enjoyment, with an emphasis on using the right foot more. According to him, mastering the track entails finding a rhythm and linking corners. With optimal car balance, it ensures an exciting, enjoyable experience at the upcoming race.
“I’m looking forward to also developing the car and using my experience, and ultimately, I think, for Budapest, just go out and have fun, try and use more right foot than left and have a good time!” Daniel Ricciardo told the media. “If the car is balanced, you can really have some fun,” he added.
The Red Bull sister team sits at the bottom of the F1 constructors’ standings with 2 points. They aim to rebound at the Hungarian Grand Prix with the second part of their upgrades package. The initial update at Silverstone targeted improving grip in slow-speed corners, a persistent area for improvement.
Daniel Ricciardo’s open approach to the AlphaTauri car
Reflecting on his experience during the recent tire test at Silverstone, Daniel Ricciardo remarked that driving the Red Bull felt familiar and comfortable. As for the AlphaTauri car, he expressed a willingness to approach it without preconceived notions and work with whatever balance it offers. Although he acknowledged the challenge of immediately performing, he said he was enthusiastic about the opportunity ahead.
“The AlphaTauri car will be what it is,” Ricciardo said.“I don’t want to have too many preconceived ideas about it. It’s going to be a challenge, to jump in and just hit the ground running, but I’m excited about it.”
After rejoining Red Bull as their reserve driver this season, he efficiently fulfilled his responsibilities. However, he didn’t have an opportunity to drive the dominant RB19 until the British Grand Prix. During a team test at Silverstone following the race weekend, he showcased a competitive pace, impressing those involved.
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Elaine D'Cruz
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