Daniel Ricciardo: “Not sure what happened”

Eventful day in the clan Renault F1 Team. One Esteban Ocon did not know an avatar in this first salvo of driving of the Styrian Grand Prix, free practice 2 of Daniel Ricciardo were quickly shortened following a violent exit from the track at turn n°9 of the Red Bull ring.

Engaged in his first timed lap, the Australian lost his RS20 in the middle of a curve, before continuing his trajectory in reverse into the gravel trap then the wall of tires. A fairly significant shock, Ricciardo limping somewhat when getting into the medical car, when the car at the Losange was largely damaged.

After a short visit to the medical center, Ricciardo was released by doctors, declared fit for duty by the FIA ​​medical delegate.

“The second session was unfortunately very short for us, Ricciardo indicated in the afternoon. This first flying lap went well until the ninth turn. It was a mistake, everything happened so quickly that I'm not sure I know what happened.

I spun and immediately lost control. I know it can happen with single-seaters and F1 cars, so it's nothing really out of the ordinary. I hit my knee on the steering column on impact. So just a little bruised.

But the doctors checked it, there are just a few bruises. All is well. I'm fine but the car was pretty damaged. Of course I feel bad, certainly for my knee, but also for the guys on the team. I'm trying to figure out what was wrong.

It's one of those accidents that happens so quickly. I turned and at that moment there was a bit of tailwind which may have played a part, with the loss of the rear, but nothing on the car broke, so it was obviously just me.

We will simply move forward. The car seemed good this morning, especially towards the end. It would have been an interesting afternoon. All that remains is to know our pace tomorrow or Sunday. »

Chief race engineer Ciaron Pilbeam has confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo's car will be ready to hit the track tomorrow, weather permitting, with rain expected above the Red Bull Ring.