Daniel Ricciardo admits he feels better when criticized

What should we remember from the first part of the season? Daniel Ricciardo ? It is clear that apart from his 4th place in the Sprint race in Miami, where he was able to resist Carlos Sainz et Oscar piastri, unfortunately we don't remember much about his performances on the track. The Australian has rather stood out in the paddocks with his numerous media outings in response to the criticism he has had to face.

In Canada, Jacques Villeneuve had not been kind to him: “ Why is he still Formula 1 ? We have been hearing the same things for four or five years: “We have to make the car better for him” No, you are in F1. Maybe [a team] can make the effort to Lewis Hamilton, who has won world championships, but she won't do it for a driver who isn't up to the task. If you're not up to it, go home and someone will take your place »

Ricciardo had curtly responded to the Canadian in front of the cameras but also showed his talent on the track. Qualified 5th on the grid, Honey Badger had a good race, without the slightest error despite the changing conditions. 8th place at the finish and particularly important points for Racing Bulls in the constructors' battle.

Despite some interesting performances here and there, the Perth native is well aware that he lacks consistency this season: “ It's probably the thing I miss the most since the start of the season, to string together several good results. ". According to him, his best performances are each time in response to criticism aimed at him. “I feel like when we have a media briefing and they say, 'Yeah, a few people are saying things about you,' I tend to have a decent weekend! Maybe there is some good in all of this! »

So should we criticize Daniel Ricciardo every race weekend to see him perform? In any case, the Australian is very enthusiastic about starting the second part of the season. And for good reason, he seems to have found a way to perform: “I know what to do now and I've finally gained some momentum, I'm finally on the right track. Now I'm trying to continue this momentum. I feel good in the car.” 

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