Daniel Ricciardo still “frustrated” despite qualifying resurgence

Daniel Ricciardo returned to form in qualifying at Silverstonee — Photo: © LAT Images

British Grand Prix

Ricciardo still “frustrated” despite qualifying resurgence

McLaren driver recovers his form at Silverstone

Will Gray

Friday 16 July 2021 22:44

Daniel Ricciardo was left frustrated despite returning to form in qualifying for F1's first sprint race at this weekend's British Grand Prix.

Ricciardo, who qualified sixth in his first two races with McLaren after joining the team from Renault, has since struggled but finished seventh behind team-mate Lando Norris at Silverstone, and just 0.071secs behind fourth-placed Charles Leclerc.

On this occasion, qualifying has only decided the positions for the sprint, with that session to then determine the grid for the grand prix on Sunday.

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“Overall, definitely a better day, but I am a little frustrated because I feel like there was a little bit more,” said Ricciardo.

"I think we had a bit more in the last run and looking at Charles, honestly, I feel like that was achievable.

“So, looking at the last few qualifyings, for sure, everyone will be like 'Tthis is a lot better’ and it is, but maybe that’s why I’m more frustrated because I feel like there was even more today, so I’m somewhat in the middle at the moment.”

Ricciardo enjoying ‘fan fever’ at packed Silverstone

Ricciardo, whose home race was cancelled this season due to Covid-19 restrictions, enjoyed seeing the fans back at the track.

The 32-year-old was also impressed by the new format, which gave teams just one practice session before the qualifying run.

“I’ve really enjoyed it today," he added. "I’ve actually really liked just one practice straight into quali.

“I mean, we had it a few times last year in Imola and Nurburgring because of weather and it was cool, it just makes me get on with it, so who knows what tomorrow’s like with the practice then the sprint qualifying, but so far so good.

“It’s wild to have the fans back. On a flying lap you’re so laser-focused you don’t notice but then once you do a lap and on the cool-down you notice.

"It’s a good feeling and more than anything, it’s hot at Silverstone. British summer finally arrived and it feels good.”