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Ricciardo on Sochi: Feels like driving in a car park!

Ricciardo on Sochi: "Feels like driving in a car park!"

22-09-2018 10:38
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Nicolás Quarles van Ufford

Despite not having a great history there, Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo still admits to really enjoy the track at Sochi, host of next week's Russian Grand Prix, as he describes the track as "driving flat out in a car park".

The Aussie has had a difficult spell in recent, as his driving has been subpar compared to his teammate Max Verstappen. Ricciardo is also very unlucky with his car, as it seems to be constantly breaking down on him. Maybe he secretly likes it, as it justifies his move to Renault next year a little more.

Looking ahead to next week's venue, the 29-year-old admitted that it's not a circuit where he expects to be driving his best race ever.

"It’s not a track I’ve had an amazing result at," he confessed to GPfans.

"It doesn’t really play to our strengths.

"But this is racing, so anything can happen.

"It’s very flat and open.

"In some ways it feels like driving flat out in a car park!"

Despite not being favourable to Red Bull, the track is still fun to drive, Ricciardo argues, as the surface has become better to drive on since the circuit was first a host of the F1 circus.

"It’s a surprisingly enjoyable lap," he explained.

"Apart from the long straight, there’s a lot going on and it’s a layout that keeps you thinking.

"The track surface has also improved over the last few years.

"When we first went there the track was very slippery but the grip levels have improved as the track has rubbered in, making it a more enjoyable circuit to drive.

"It’s definitely grown on me since we started racing there."