Daniel Ricciardo was interviewed by PlanetF1.com as the Monaco Grand Prix commenced.
Friday’s F1 news from Monaco has landed, and we have a whole host to bring you from the Principality this weekend.
Let’s delve into the headlines as Daniel Ricciardo and Laurent Mekies exclusively spoke to PlanetF1.com, with additional reporting from Thomas Maher and Sam Cooper, as the action kicks off in Monaco.
F1 news: Daniel Ricciardo gives statement of Red Bull intent to PlanetF1.com
Sitting down with PlanetF1.com over the weekend, Daniel Ricciardo explained his intentions to return to Red Bull next season, and his belief within himself that he can compete at the front again if given the opportunity.
“In Imola,” he declared, “this is the reason behind my actions!”
It’s evident that I took a break last year. However, I have returned with a strong desire to succeed, not because of any financial setbacks or the need to earn money.
To be honest, my return here is fueled by my unwavering belief in my abilities. I am still driven by a strong hunger for success.
Ricciardo shared a wealth of valuable information in this interview, and although we may be biased, we believe it’s worth your time.
Read more: Daniel Ricciardo exclusive: I’m absolutely ready to return to Red Bull
Carlos Sainz spots ‘very clear cases’ of deliberate red flags
Carlos Sainz has voiced his concerns about the impact of red flags on drivers and called for rule modifications. The Ferrari driver is convinced that there have been instances where red flags have been deliberately triggered to gain an advantage in qualifying, especially at tracks where starting position is vital.
Sainz informed the media, including PlanetF1.com, that in street circuits, drivers have witnessed deliberate efforts by certain individuals to create red flags.
“The FIA may not be fully convinced of their intention, as drivers have a clear understanding of what is deliberate and what is not. It will be fascinating to observe the approach they adopt for this weekend.”
The subject of discussion in Monaco is always present. My only wish is that, in order to enhance the show and ensure fair play and fair racing, all of us go out in Q1 and Q3, putting forth our best efforts without indulging in needless risks.
Read more: Carlos Sainz wants FIA action after ‘very clear cases’ of deliberate red flag loophole
Charles Leclerc on form in Monaco Grand Prix practice
Lewis Hamilton was the fastest in the first practice session in Monaco, but Charles Leclerc stole the show in the second practice session. Leclerc showcased an impressive performance, managing to go almost a full second faster than all the other drivers using medium tyres. During the qualifying simulations, Leclerc maintained a two-tenth gap to Hamilton, who was using soft tyres.
In the more significant session for qualifying and long-run simulations, Max Verstappen found himself in fourth place for Red Bull, trailing by half a second. He expressed worry about the excessive bouncing of his Red Bull over the bumps of Monte Carlo. Notably, Fernando Alonso and Lando Norris also finished in the top five.
Read more: Monaco GP: Charles Leclerc impressively tops FP2 as Lewis Hamilton stays in the mix
Laurent Mekies gives RB future update on 2025 line-up
During our second exclusive interview of the day, RB team principal Laurent Mekies met with PlanetF1.com in Monaco to explore the potential future paths for Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda.
Although both drivers are entering the last years of their existing contracts with the team, the team principal has assured that they are in no hurry to determine their future course of action.
Once more, we want to emphasize that we are not biased, but we genuinely believe it is highly valuable and deserving of your time.
Read more: Exclusive: Why RB are ‘in no rush’ to decide Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda future
Max Verstappen gives ‘kangaroo’ assessment of bouncy Red Bull RB20
During free practice in Monaco, Max Verstappen struggled to find harmony with his Red Bull RB20 due to the challenging bumps on the circuit.
He exclaimed to race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase through the team radio, “I feel like a kangaroo! I’m experiencing unbearable headaches! It’s absolutely insane.”
Sergio Perez, the fellow team member, was experiencing a similar struggle in his car. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the ride, stating, “The ride is absolutely terrible. I can’t even see the apex of Turn 3 from the front.”
Read more: Max Verstappen brands Red Bull RB20 a ‘kangaroo’ in startling Monaco practice
