Ricciardo: Singapore disaster made me change approach

Daniel Ricciardo has reflected on his first race in the Singapore Grand Prix calling it one of his "worst" experiences behind the wheel in Formula One, but admits that with more time spent in the demanding setting that the previous pain has become a "pleasure".

Singapore is widely recognised by the drivers as being the most physically demanding race of the season due to the night setting, street circuit, heat, and humidity.

In Ricciardo's first outing at the Marina Bay Street Circuit seven years ago, he finished in 19th place, and it was an experience he does not look back on with fondness, even though he now embraces the pleasure of the challenge.

“I have learned to love the challenge of Singapore," Ricciardo told the official Formula One website.

"For me, the first year I raced there in 2011 was one of the worst races I have been involved in. Physically it was so intense, I just underestimated how hard it would be.

"I wasn’t in a happy place after that race, it gave me a feeling I never want to experience in a race car again, so I made a promise to myself that I would always come to Singapore over-prepared. In a way this is now something I take pride in; I always get there feeling really sharp and well prepared.

"I now really like that challenge and I also thrive in the heat. In a strange way, the pain has become pleasure over the years."

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Ever since the disappointing first attempt at the Singapore GP, Ricciardo has flourished in the race, and he is hoping that after years of improving he can finally claim the flag in the nighttime format which he loves.

"As everyone knows, I love street circuits," the Australian continued.

"The feeling of driving on the edge, so close to the walls, is something you just can’t get enough of. It’s the original night race and the schedule is always pretty hectic but there is something kind of romantic about going to the track at night and then to bed at four or five in the morning.

"It’s a place where I also have good races and finish pretty strong. I’ve had four podiums and three second places in a row there, so it’s about time I win the damn thing.”