‘Lot to Be Excited For’ – Daniel Ricciardo Sees the Positives From Imola Outing

Daniel Ricciardo has made a decent start to his newest F1 chapter with McLaren. But his younger and lesser experienced teammate Lando Norris has thoroughly outshone him over the course of two races. Although the Australian knows he has a lot to improve on, he also sees the positive aspects from the opening rounds of the 2021 calendar.

The man from down under, who played a part in making the race at Imola a memorable one for the team, said, “I’m definitely in a productive mindset and not in a defeatist mindset. I certainly see the positives and for the team as well. [In] the second race, to get a podium already, I think it’s a good start.

“It’s encouraging to be up in the mix. So a lot to be excited for this year. I’m certainly happy with the progress we made, and there’s still more to come. So I’ll be patient yet persistent.”

A P6 finish in Imola and a total of 14 points from the first two races is a solid start. However, for a man who has won 7 F1 races and has 31 podiums to his name, Ricciardo knows there’s a lot more he could be achieving with McLaren.

Daniel Ricciardo reveals what he needs to change

the ex-Renault driver said, “There is probably just still some old habits that that I need to flush out a little bit and things that maybe don’t work as well for this car.

“Even if personally I’m not getting everything out of it yet, the thing that gives me confidence is obviously looking at the potential of the car. It’s there, and it’s pretty good.”

The McLaren car certainly looks to be the best amongst the mid-field runners. Perhaps its closest competitor this season will be the seemingly much improved Ferrari.

But it’s great to see the historic Woking-based outfit building on from the past couple of seasons. It’ll be amazing for fans to see them competing for podiums on a regular basis.

As for Ricciardo, he himself has the skills and the knowhow that is required to deliver a podium or two, but he hasn’t got the full measure of the car. And that’s what usually happens when a driver moves to a new team. But be rest assured that Ricciardo will soon be picking his performances up.

Now whether that’ll happen as early as the next race in Portimao is hard to tell. But be sure to tune in on May 2nd to find out the answer.

Read More: WATCH: Lando Norris Nearly Collides With Ricciardo in Hairy Moment at Imola Start