The Curious Story Behind Daniel Ricciardo’s $370 Pre-Race Essential, Courtesy of Dr Dre

Music plays an important role in preparing a Formula 1 driver’s mindset before a nerve-racking race. And Daniel Ricciardo is no different from other drivers. The Aussie has stated his love for music time and again as he uses it to improve focus and as an escapism from the pressure.

Formula 1 fans would have spotted Ricciardo with colorful headphones before a race. He usually goes to the side of the track, near his car, where he can be seen hitting it off with the music. The popular company Beats by Dre sponsor his vibrant headphones and it is custom made as well.

Moreover, the company has modeled it according to the design of his helmet with the words, ‘Present Momentum.’ Furthermore, he also opened up about the essentials before traveling to a Grand Prix. Ricciardo carries a TUMI Velocity Backpack with a built in USB charger and a GoPro as well.

Speaking about his custom made headphones, he said, “It’s out there, but it’s also like my helmet, it’s pretty loud. It has got the message on it this year which is Present Momentum and a few little things that have been taken from my home, so it’s cool to have custom stuff. Don’t get me wrong, it’s just the position I’m in, it’s a bit of a privilege to have some unique items.”

READ MORE: WATCH: Daniel Riccairdo Opens Up on How His Music Choices Decide His Race Strategy

The wireless Beats studio headphones cost about $349.95, according to the website. It can be used up to 22 hours and has active noise cancellation.

Daniel Ricciardo reflects on his love for music

Ricciardo has always stated his love and pleasure in listening to music. According to him, it helps him relax and get prepared for a session on the track. The Aussie and his headphones go hand in hand. He also revealed that music helps him to get into his zone before a race.

“Music can be a lot of things for me. It can put me in the zone and enhance my focus. It’s an escape, it can take my mind elsewhere. I think seeing music live is probably one of the only things in the world that actually allows me to 100 percent switch off anything else and have pure focus,” he said.

WATCH THIS STORY: F1 Drivers Trying Their Hand at Different Sports

Meanwhile, the 2022 season has been a disappointing one for the Honey Badger. He has only scored points in 3 races as questions regarding his future have come up.

Like the quote ‘Present Momentum’ on his lid and headphones, he will hope to get some momentum as the season progresses. With just 11 races to go, do you think Ricciardo can keep his seat with McLaren for the 2023 season?