Daniel Ricciardo’s hopes of securing a coveted Red Bull seat in 2025 took a hit after a point-less start to the 2024 season. However, the Chinese Grand Prix offered a glimmer of optimism despite a disappointing retirement. Ricciardo qualified ahead of his teammate in both the sprint and the grand prix, showing signs of improvement. He was in contention for points in both races until a collision with Aston Martin’s Stroll forced him to retire with car damage. Despite the setback, Ricciardo remains upbeat, acknowledging that the team took a blow but also emphasizing the positives from the weekend. The Australian had requested a chassis change ahead of the Shanghai event, and he believes that this contributed to his improved performance. Ricciardo explained that he felt more at ease with the new chassis, which allowed him to drive more seamlessly. While he remains cautious, Ricciardo is hopeful that the progress made in Shanghai can be sustained in upcoming races, marking a turning point in his season.
Ricciardo’s Renewed Optimism Despite Stroll Clash at Shanghai
