Ricciardo gets rid of ‘anger’ following tough weekend

Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo is already looking ahead to this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix, following a challenging round in Portugal for the McLaren driver.

Ricciardo finished in ninth place at the Portuguese Grand Prix on Sunday, salvaging two points after starting the race from 16th on the grid.

The Aussie, who was left frustrated after being eliminated in Q1 at Portimao on Saturday, was more like himself in the race as he made up seven places.

Ricciardo joined McLaren from Renault (now racing as Alpine) for the 2021 Formula 1® season but has only finished as high as sixth place after three races.

“Today was certainly a better day,” Ricciardo said after the race in Portugal.

“I was able to do what I set out to do and overtake some cars, have some battles and get rid of some anger from yesterday, so that was good.

“I think there were moments of the race that were really positive and having got another race distance under me, I feel like I’ve got quite a bit of feedback for the team.

“I definitely feel some things which are holding me back in terms of what I want to do with the car, and every time I try it, it doesn’t quite hold on.

“So, I think there are some things we can immediately address with the set-up, and then with some updates to come.

“Overall, I’m pretty optimistic with how the race went, thanks again to the team at track and in Woking for their support and hard work this weekend.

“I’m already looking forward to Spain in a few days’ time.”

The Portuguese Grand Prix was won by Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes, followed by Red Bull driver Max Verstappen and Hamilton’s teammate Valtteri Bottas.