Daniel Ricciardo asserts Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso ‘prove’ that F1 can be done at an ‘older age’

Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, Daniel Ricciardo (via IMAGO)

Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso are the two oldest drivers on the grid currently. Hamilton driving for Mercedes has an impressive record with seven world championships. His career is known for the most victories in Formula 1 with 105. However, Alonso is the oldest before him, having won the titles in 2005 and 2006. Alonso, being 43-years-old, still has the passion to continue in the sport. This really inspired drivers like Daniel Ricciardo that they can still perform in their late thirties.

Daniel Ricciardo has been facing a tough time in F1 lately. The Aussie is struggling to stay ahead of his teammate Yuki Tsunoda, who is young and has less experience than him. Red Bull’s struggling driver Sergio Perez had speculations about being replaced after the latest Belgian GP. Ricciardo asserted that he has what it takes to replace Perez at Red Bull. Despite many critics suggesting that, the Australian given his age would be past his prime. However, he pointed out to Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, that despite being the oldest drivers, they continue to perform. Hamilton even won the last race in Belgium, so they have proved age is just a number in F1.

They have proven you can still do it at an older age.

Daniel Ricciardo said, as reported by motorsportweek.com

YouTube video player
Ricciardo admitted that his main struggle was maintaining consistent performance. He acknowledged that while he had some strong races, he didn’t deliver top results regularly. This inconsistency affected his ability to secure a more permanent spot in Red Bull. The 35-year-old reckoned, if he would’ve performed persistently then he would not have faced the struggles he’s facing currently.

What I haven’t done well, I would say, is probably just put it under the consistency bracket.

Daniel Ricciardo added.

RELATED

Red Bull could risk losing Max Verstappen if it fails to improve after the summer break
Max Verstappen, elmut Marko and Christian Horner

Daniel Ricciardo claimed he needs to sort his s*** out

Daniel Ricciardo acknowledged that people have sometimes questioned whether he has what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. He explained that whenever his abilities were doubted, he managed to prove them wrong by delivering strong performances. The 35-year-old stated that he has shown he can compete at the highest level when he is at his best. He admitted that the key to his success is sorting out any issues that might be holding him back from delivering strong performances.
Daniel RicciardoDaniel Ricciardo (via IMAGO)

But I think the it factor, when people question that, at least more than once, I’ve been able to say, okay, I can do it, I’ve just got to sort my s*** out.

Daniel Ricciardo stated.

Certainly, Daniel Ricciardo believes in his abilities after being in F1 for such a long time. He takes inspiration from the older generation who’s still in F1 and performing exceptionally. Ricciardo asserted that he has what it takes and will sort things out during the summer break. This would eventually help him deliver strong performances in the last 10 rounds remaining.