Daniel Ricciardo set for F1 return at United States Grand Prix
Australian racer Daniel Ricciardo, who hasn't competed in two months following an injury, will make his return at this weekend's United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.
The Alpha Tauri driver – who took over for Nyck de Vries in the middle of the Formula One season – suffered a broken wrist during a practice run at the Dutch Grand Prix in August. The injury kept him out of the car and in recovery for longer than Ricciardo would have liked.
"My hand is much better," Ricciardo said, per formulaone.com. "It was definitely frustrating watching the past few races, especially as I'd gotten myself to a place where I was so ready to go again and race."
Ricciardo missed the Dutch, Italy, Singapore, Japan and Qatar Grands Prix races during his recovery. He was replaced in the Alpha Tauri by Kiwi driver Liam Lawson, who performed well in Ricciardo's absence.
Ricciardo, however, always had his sights set on an F1 return at the United States Grand Prix.
"I've always enjoyed Austin," he said. "It's very unique for a modern-day circuit."
Ricciardo's love of the United States Grand Prix – and of Austin in general – is well documented.
The Australian considers himself an honorary Texan and is renowned for embracing Austin's culture. Last season, Ricciardo entered the Austin driver's paddock with a special guest: a working stallion named Horsey McHorse.
Ricciardo is also very specific about his playlists while competing in Austin.
"One thing that's unconditional when I go to Austin is it's strictly folk, country," he told Sports Illustrated. "That's what we're playing all week. I love all genres – hip hop, electronic or whatever. But Austin, it's strictly country and folk."
Ricciardo isn't just listening to music in the paddock. He also experiences it in Austin before race day.
"A lot of people are like, 'Dude, there's a race tomorrow. Why are you in a bar listening to this band play?' It's all a part of the experience in Austin," he said with a laugh. "I'm not in bed at 9 p.m. every night. I'm definitely having a good time."
Ricciardo is set for a big weekend in Austin at the United States Grand Prix. It's a sprint weekend, which means that he'll have just one practice session in the car before competing for points in a variety of races. His team, Alpha Tauri, has brought several upgrades in Ricciardo's absence and is hoping to perform well on the track.
The race will begin Sunday at 3 p.m. ET.
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