F1 News

Ricciardo emotional after Italian GP win: 'Not seen mum or dad for over a year'

Ricciardo emotional after Italian GP win: 'Not seen mum or dad for over a year'

12-09-2021 16:25
1

After a difficult start to the 2021 Formula 1 season, Daniel Ricciardo finally made his mark at McLaren by winning the Italian Grand Prix. The Australian formed part of McLaren's first one-two since the 2010 Canadian Grand Prix

McLaren

Ricciardo moved from Red Bull to McLaren via Renault. After some good results for Renault, Ricciardo struggled to find his feet at the British team. Lando Norris was scooping up podiums in the first half of the season, whilst Ricciardo struggled to score points at some races. In a conversation with Sky Sports, Ricciardo looks back at this adversity. 

"Some of the speed bumps along the way makes it sweeter. I am just grateful that I still have a chip on my shoulder. Its been at times the most challenging year for me. I am not shying away from it. It kinda make me understand who I am but for sure there has been low points and on top of it and then not seeing mom and dad for over a year," Ricciardo said. 

"I am an affectionate person and I like a cuddle from mom and dad. I was talking to myself and I was convinced that nothing is going to take it away from me. No one would have predicted this. I think it's just like... it's easy to lose confidence and lose your way. Knowing deep within yourself that it can happen."

It's the first time McLaren have won a race since the 2012 season when Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton were driving for the team.