Ricciardo issues heartfelt message to fans

Daniel Ricciardo has issued a heartfelt message to Formula 1's fed-up fans by urging them to use their time in self-isolation wisely to improve themselves or to complete a project they have never found time for.

Steering clear of naming any race that could potentially host the new 2020 F1 season opener, Ricciardo tentatively told Talk Sport 2 that current predictions were that racing could potentially get underway in July.

“I’ve kept in contact with the team and [am] just trying to figure out what’s going on as well," said Ricciardo.

"I’m also aware that, I don’t think anyone really has a hold of this virus yet, and we’re predicting maybe July we’ll get going, but really, who knows?”

Asked whether he had a message for fans who may be struggling at this point in time, should they be separated from loved ones or living with financial difficulties, the Renault driver delivered a supportive statement, stressing that everyone is in this together.

“One of the most comforting things through this is that everyone’s in it," added Ricciardo.

"I think [that] a lot of the time, if you’re going through a hard time in life or if you’re down about something, if you’re the only one in the room then it’s a bit harder.

"But if there’s a group of you to rally through it together, it always feels like it’s easier to overcome a situation."

Ricciardo added: “Everyone can take comfort knowing that the whole world is in the same struggle, and then it’s all about working together and keeping each other’s spirits up through interaction with each other. Obviously, from a distance or through the social platforms that we’ve got.

“If you’re fortunate to still be healthy at this moment, take advantage of it. You’re at home, get a chance to, whether you stay active and create a little program for yourself to stay healthy and get fit or, you know, to do a life long self project that you’ve always wanted to do but never had time to do.

“You can really use this time to probably find out a bit more about yourself and obviously, people that have been affected, my heart goes to them and I encourage everyone just to try and dig through it and do what they have to do to stay healthy and keep their immune [system] strong.”

Despite the suggestion of a possible July start, Ricciardo is hoping the Canadian Grand Prix on June 14 is able to welcome in the start of the new campaign given all races up until that point have either been cancelled or postponed.

Asked as to what race he would like to be the new opener, the Australian replied: “I mean the fantasy answer is Melbourne – I’d love for it to get started at home.

"But knowing what I know, for now, I don’t think Montreal has been cancelled yet and that is the next one on the list.

“I love Montreal as a city and a circuit. It’s one of my favourite Grands Prix, so if we could start there that would make my day.”

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