The Australian managed to reignite his F1 career with the AlphaTauri squad last season, either side of his hand fracture-enforced layoff, with a series of strong drives following his mid-season call-up to the Italian squad.
Although there have been no apparent defects with the tub he used in the first four races, the Perth native reckoned that the new chassis should at least offer a psychological reward after admitting to struggles in the opening sixth of the season.
“Obviously, I’ve been quite vocal about it, because I’ve been struggling a bit this year,” Ricciardo explained.
“But I think also to be clear that it was always the plan to introduce that chassis here, but I was just putting my hand up that whenever it’s ready, I’ll take it.
“Yuki’s happy with his, so that’s that. It’s one little box just to tick now and make sure that we’re all okay – and peace of mind.
Daniel Ricciardo, RB F1 Team VCARB 01
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
“We haven’t found anything wrong with what I had. Sometimes it’s if these things might be visible, might not. Maybe it’s just to clear my mind and have it; regardless, even if I had my old chassis, it doesn’t change my approach to the weekend.
“I still think I can make something happen. But it’s something now that I’m sure deep down it will help one way, shape or form.”
Ricciardo likened his current situation to that of his first season with Renault in 2019 where he endured two difficult races in Australia and Bahrain, before a race in China yielded his first points of the season with seventh place.
“I haven’t [had to seek reassurances]. I think because I’m obviously around the team every day, that I would hear it from them,” Ricciardo said.
“I haven’t had a great start to the season, but I’m also not a rookie…
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