McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo is looking forward to the 2022 Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, claiming is will be bouncing back stronger after his underwhelming race at Imola two weeks ago.
The Australian had a tough Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, as he crashed into Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz on the opening lap, putting the Spaniard out of contention, and sustaining damage to his car, ultimately finishing the race 18th, as his teammate Lando Norris took third.
However, Ricciardo is looking forward to recover in Miami, and said in McLaren’s race preview: “I’m buzzing to be heading to Miami!
“The US is like a second home to me, so I can’t wait to get on track in front of the fans and soak up the amazing atmosphere in the city. Miami knows how to put on a show so it’s shaping up to be an incredible weekend.
“I can’t wait for the challenge of a new track. The street circuit has some great features and they’re something I’m really looking forward to testing out,” he added.
Ricciardo said that Norris’ strong result at Imola is giving him some confidence that the MCL36 is on an upward performance slope.
“Last race was a very tough one for me after sustaining damage on the first lap, but I’m bouncing back stronger and I’m ready to go,” he said. “We still have a lot of improvements to make to the car, but Lando’s result in Imola was very encouraging.
“Hopefully we can get another good result this weekend, let’s keep pushing!” the Honey Badger concluded.
Norris riding in Miami on the highs of Imola
Norris added: “I’m hyped for this weekend. New circuits are always something I look forward to, and when you add in the excitement around a US race, particularly in Miami, it’s going to be so cool.
“It’s looking fast with some great features and with the added element of being a street track, it’s going to be a fun challenge,” the Briton revealed.
Norris is still relishing his great result from Imola, and looks to keep the momentum, and said: “I’m riding in on the high of the last race and hoping to keep the momentum going forward.
“Whilst the podium finish wasn’t exactly expected, it’s a testament to the hard work and determination of the team at track and back at the factory.
“Let’s keep going and push as hard as we can!” the 22-year-old concluded.
A new track offers opportunities and presents challenges
McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl weighed in on the opportunities and challenged the new Miami track will present.
“A new track always poses great opportunities, and the circuit looks like an exciting one,” he said in the team’s preview. “The temporary track seems to have a permanent feel, with some small undulations, fast pace and it has been designed with some good overtaking opportunities, enhanced further by these new regulation cars.
“New tracks also come with some challenges, such as lack of data, so we’re looking forward to getting out there and gathering these valuable insights,” the German added. “Whilst we still have a long way to go, we can continue to build on the good performances of the last few races.
“It’s great to see F1 become part of the city’s vast sporting legacy,” the McLaren boss admitted. “Going to places such as this can only benefit our sport, so it’s great to be able to reach even more fans and continue to grow the papaya family stateside.
“The team always enjoy US races with their great atmosphere and brilliant fans. Let’s go racing!” Seidl concluded.