Ricciardo gives his calling card: 'Had something to put right after US GP'

Daniel Ricciardo looks back on his qualifying for the Mexican Grand Prix with great satisfaction. The Australian qualified fourth, even ahead of Sergio Perez. Ricciardo thus gives his calling card for a seat at Red Bull Racing.

Ricciardo returned to AlphaTauri at the United States Grand Prix after an injury to his hand sustained at Zandvoort. In Austin, Ricciardo could not yet make his mark, but in Mexico, the eight-time race winner appears to be back in full force with a fourth place in qualifying.

Ricciardo impresses in Mexico

Ricciardo joked to Viaplay that his moustache will remain. "Maybe the (moustache) had too much drag in Austin or not as much fortune. But no, I felt really good since yesterday (Friday). Even before getting into the car I already felt good. I carried an extra something this weekend." 

"After Austin, I felt like I had some unfinished business. I knew we had time to try things with the setup. We wanted to do it in Austin but we didn't have the time for that with the sprint format. I felt good, aggressive and confident in the car. I really felt we could be P6, P7. I didn't think it would P4, but I'm not surprised because we've been going really well this whole weekend. I'm happy."

With a fourth place in qualifying, Ricciardo immediately sends a signal to Red Bull, who are obviously keeping an eye on him for the seat next to Max Verstappen. Helmut Marko was full of praise for Ricciardo's performance, stating that it was a good move for his future. Perez still has a contract for 2024 at Red Bull Racing, but it is no secret that Ricciardo is wanting that seat.