Daniel Ricciardo believes changes to the Albert Park circuit for the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne mean the race will be “totally different” previous events.
The Albert Park layout has been changed for the first time in its 26-year history, with the entire track redone and several corners modified.
The biggest change was the removal of the old 9/10 chicane, creating a new super fast section along Lakeside Drive.
“I don’t take credit for myself, but I was a bit involved in the discussions regarding the redevelopment of the circuit a few years ago when they had the first idea of what to do to try to improve a little race,” Ricciardo explains today at a media event in Melbourne.
“Melbourne has always been a fun track driving an F1 car, but on Sunday it was a bit too difficult to overtake just because of the layout and the nature of it. So really, the idea was to try to unlock the potential and make Sunday a bit more exciting, and allow for more overtaking.”
“I think for the race you’re going to see a totally different Sunday here in Melbourne.”
The Australian Grand Prix has usually been the opening round of the Formula 1 season, but for 2022 it has returned as the 3rd event on the calendar. It is the first time since 2010 that Australia has organized a Formula 1 race that is no longer in 1st position.
“Honestly, as we’ve missed this race for a few years, I’m just grateful it’s still on the calendar,” replies Ricciardo, when asked if he was worried regarding a possible disappearance of his home race.
“It’s true that it’s a Grand Prix which is far away, it’s isolated, the logistics are difficult. But at the moment, I don’t mind seeing its position on the calendar, as long as we have a Grand Prix of ‘Australia, I’m happy.
“Honestly, I’m not worried whether it’s the first, third or tenth Grand Prix, as long as it stays on the calendar and we can come to it, that’s fine with me.”
