Daniel Ricciardo draws Jeddah Macau comparison

Ricciardo, McLaren, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia — Photo: © LAT Images

Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Ricciardo draws Jeddah Macau comparison

Ricciardo suggested there is 'no track quite like' the new circuit in Saudi Arabia

Ewan Gale

Friday 3 December 2021 11:37

Daniel Ricciardo has drawn comparisons between F1's newest circuit in Jeddah and the jewel in F3's crown in Macau.

The Far East venue has long been a proving ground for up-and-coming racers, with world champions Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher amongst previous winners, along with Ralf Schumacher and David Coulthard.

The Jeddah Corniche Circuit, dubbed the world's fastest street track, provides unknowns ahead of the inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix this weekend.

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With parallels being made between the circuit and Monza, Ricciardo was quick to dismiss similarities with a venue where he won his first race with McLaren in September.

"It is funny because it gets a little bit compared to Monza's set up but it is a very different track," said the Australian. "I don't know if there is anything quite like this circuit.

"At the moment, some of the sections remind me a little bit of Macau. It was a long time ago that I was there but it is a high-speed street circuit.

"There are elements of that in Baku but it is really only the last part, otherwise Baku is quite twisty.

"It is going to be a challenge, definitely, but it is going to be something that is fun and exciting. I got excited on the track ride and did a bit of sim as well during the week so looking forward to the first few laps."

Ricciardo looking to rectify street struggles

Ricciardo has tasted success in Canada, Azerbaijan and Monaco in his career yet struggled at street circuits during the first half of the season as he got to grips with the MCL35.

Looking forward to putting the record straight this weekend, he reflected: "This year I have definitely had challenges.

"The street circuits were uncharacteristically not strong for me this year so nice to have another chance at one and try to have a good weekend.

"Yeah, it is good. Lots of fans on the track ride as well so I think they are all pretty excited for the event."