Covid-secure working procedures won't hinder driver preparations - Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo does not expect the new Covid-secure working procedures to affect his preparations for the Formula 1 season opening Austrian Grand Prix.

Face masks, visors and social distancing are all features of Formula 1 in 2020, but Ricciardo says drivers should not be worried by the changes.

"I think that going back to the circuit and being inside the environment and preparing before the race, I don't see any preparation being hindered," Ricciardo told a media conference call which included GPFans.

"We've got our drivers space to warm up and prepare for the race itself, so it's more from a general hygiene point of view, but as far as getting into the car ready to go, I believe I'll still be able to use everything I have before to make sure I'm hopping in the car at 100 per cent."

Expectant of scoring some strong results in what will likely be a tightly contested midfield, Ricciardo joked that team personnel would need to find new ways to embrace each other in celebration.

"I'm a hugger, I like hugging," said Ricciardo. "That's got to change. I've got to keep my distance, but I'm sure we're going to find some new ways to embrace each other, especially after a good result.

"Obviously, we're going to do what we can to keep this thing away and keep it out of the paddock. We've waited so long to get back to doing what we love, so it's up to us to make sure that, once we get back in there, we remain and stay strong and healthy and keep it out.

"No hugging for now."

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