With the United States Grand Prix taking place this weekend, Daniel Ricciardo looks to be embracing his inner American. During this week, the 32-year-old sported a cowboy hat along with traditional Texan clothes, and gave an interview with his best American accent.
However, he doesn’t look to stop there. During the course of this weekend, the Australian will sport a helmet which draws inspiration from his racing hero.
Daniel Ricciardo to wear a helmet drawing inspiration from Dale Earnhardt Sr.
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Earnhardt Sr. forged a reputation by racing in NASCAR, which is firmly rooted in American motor sport culture. He won the NASCAR Cup Series a record seven times and the 1998 Daytona 500. To this day, only Richard Petty and Jimmie Johnson have seven NASCAR Cup Series victories.
Ricciardo often mentioned the late 49-year-old was his racing idol when he was growing up and dreaming of becoming a racing driver. Following his stunning victory in the Italian Grand Prix, McLaren CEO Zak Brown promised the 32-year-old a drive in Earnhardt Sr.’s 1984 car. As a tribute to his racing idol, Ricciardo will sport a helmet honoring the NASCAR legend.
Daniel Ricciardo’s USGP helmet is a tribute to his hero Dale Earnhardt Sr.#USGP #NASCAR #TheIntimidator @danielricciardo pic.twitter.com/8IHR2ZrNvx
— Jens Munser Designs (@JMD_helmets) October 22, 2021
The black-colored helmet also features streaks of lightning blue, which make for an extremely appealing design. In addition, it also sports his nickname, ‘The Honey Badger’ on the back of the helmet, while comprising a simple design. His racing number, which he also took from Earnhardt Sr., takes its place on the top of the helmet in the same font often found in NASCAR.
WATCH STORY: Daniel Ricciardo Set to Drive NASCAR Legend Dale Earnhardt’s 1984 Chevrolet Car at Texas
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Can Ricciardo bring in a huge points haul this weekend?
Ricciardo endured a disappointing outing in Istanbul two weeks ago, where he finished 13th. However, McLaren look more likely to take to the Circuit of The Americas better, which could raise his spirits.
Since its return to the F1 calendar, Ricciardo has two podiums at this track. Hence, these signs suggest the Honey Badger could deliver an excellent result for McLaren. There’s no doubt the British outfit could use such a result from the Australian, especially with Ferrari just 7.5 points behind them in the constructor’s championship.
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READ MORE: Who Is Daniel Ricciardo’s American Alter-Ego Ricky Bobby?