Daniel Ricciardo could be seen wearing his new purple F1 helmet during the first week of winter testing in Barcelona. The letters 'KB23' and 'Mamba Mentality' are written on the new helmet. The Australian explains the meaning behind this tribute to a basketball legend.
With these abbreviations and words, he would like to honour basketball player Kobe Bryant. He died in a helicopter crash in January. Ricciardo explains how he never got the chance to met him.
"To be honest, I've never met him personally and I've never seen him play live. I love it when legends play other sports," Ricciardo explained to Motorsport-total.com.
Ricciardo admires Bryant's calibre
Moreover, the Renault driver has never played basketball. According to him, that doesn't mean you can't admire a person with the same calibre.
"Because I also try to reach the top of my sport, I recognise his life's work, his work ethic and his dedication. Anyone who tries something like that can admire and respect it," concludes the Australian.