Daniel Ricciardo says he has taken time to “reset and refocus” following his disappointing weekend at the Monaco Grand Prix.
The Australian failed to advance past Q2 during Saturday’s qualifying session and didn’t score points in the race, crossing the line one lap down on team-mate Lando Norris, who took his second podium finish of the year.
Ricciardo’s initial struggles at McLaren are rooted in the driving style needed to control the car, which is different to what he is used to, according to Team Principal Andreas Seidl.
Prior to the upcoming Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, Ricciardo says he undertaken sim work to further understand where he is struggling, as well as allowing himself some time off.
“Monaco wasn’t my weekend but I’m looking to bounce back,” Ricciardo said. “It’s been important to take time to reset and refocus before heading to Baku.
“The team and I have been working hard in the sim to understand, analyse and pinpoint the key areas we need to improve.
“We know the car has good potential, we just need to put all pieces together to unlock it. There’s still that element of adapting to a new car which I’m sure will come with the more time and mileage behind the wheel.
“I’m going to keep working at it, build on the progress we made in Portugal and Spain and try to feel as one with the car.”
Ricciardo has mixed memories associated with the Baku Street Circuit, winning the race in 2017 before crashing out one year later in an incident involving former Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen.
“Baku is a really cool street circuit and one of those races where potentially anything could happen,” Ricciardo said.
“The track is known for having one of the longest straights on the calendar with three cars being able to run side-by-side as you head into Turn 1.
“Hopefully, we can get the car into the right window from the off on Friday and have a solid weekend.”
