The Belgian Grand Prix weekend was a tough one for the entire Formula One paddock and the motorsport community. With the tragic death of Anthoine Hubert, there were a few lingering doubts. Among the doubters was Renault driver Daniel Ricciardo, who debated his own participation at the Belgian Grand Prix.
Ahead of the Formula 3 and Formula One races, a minute’s silence was held in honour of the fallen Hubert. Meanwhile, the Formula 2 race was cancelled out of respect as well.
In the wake of the French driver’s death, Daniel Ricciardo did a bit of soul-searching and even though of pulling out of the race.
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“Yeah, last night, absolutely,” he told Autosport. “You question, ‘is it really worth it?’. Because at the end of the day, it’s a simple question but it’s a pretty honest one as well.”
“Yeah, it’s our job and it’s our profession and it’s our life, but also it’s still just racing cars around in circles. It gets to a point where you’re reminded of these things – ‘is it worth it?'”
“I certainly questioned it last night. To be honest, seeing some of his family here today, that’s what gave me more strength than anything else. How they could be there.”
He confessed that Hubert’s grieving family were a lot stronger than any of them and he could not imagine being in their position. The Renault team were equally affected by Hubert’s passing, as he was part of the Renault junior programme.
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Daniel Ricciardo revealed that he was just glad that the race was over, especially after a tough weekend.
“I’m glad today is over,” he concluded. “I’m glad the race is over. I know, weirdly enough, the best way we can show our respect was to race today, but I don’t think any of us actually wanted to be here, or wanted to race.
“At least, I’m speaking for myself, but I’m sure I’m not the only one. It was tough, it was certainly tough to be here and try and put on a brave face for everyone. I know a lot of people in the paddock are hurting after yesterday.
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“I think everyone’s relieved it’s done and we can move on from here and hopefully it’s the last time this stuff happens.”