Hamilton and Ricciardo reveal 'dangerous' pit lane concerns

Both Daniel Ricciardo and Lewis Hamilton were keen to express their concerns about the make-up of the pit lane at the Circuit Paul Ricard ahead of the French Grand Prix, with both men saying wet weather could make it dangerous.

The circuit is returning to the calendar for the first time in nearly 30 years, and there has been concerns about certain aspects, including the chicane which the drivers believe should be removed in order to improve the track.

The speed limit was reduced from 80 km/h to 60km/h on Saturday morning as some drivers noted issues with visibility, but speaking in the aftermath of qualifying, concerns remain that if conditions get wet - as is forecast - then it may not be wholly safe.

Hamilton had raised in the driver's meeting why Mercedes have been placed in the first garage on the pit and not further along where there is more space available, and Ricciardo concurred with his rival's question.

The Aussie said: "We as drivers are protected, but the mechanics are at risk here. The layout of the entrance is not good, but it is such a long pit lane. I'm sure Lewis doesn't mind if I say this, but he wondered why the pit boxes were not used.

"I think that's a good point, that would have been so simple. Now it becomes tight when it starts to rain. "

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff had also raised concerns, referencing a recent race in the DTM discipline that left three officials injured in particularly treacherous conditions.

He added: "It is extra sensitive to me after what happened in the DTM championship. The terrible accidents and terrible injuries that arose there, it will be worrisome tomorrow.

"But I have 100% confidence that it will be all right, due to the speed reduction."