Daniel Ricciardo expects a challenge but also sees opportunity in the freezing weather at the Eifel Grand Prix.
Temperatures at the Nurburgring are barely expected to reach 10 degrees across Saturday and Sunday, making for one of the coldest races in Formula 1 history.
And Ricciardo, who admits he is “not built for the cold”, explained how such conditions impact the driving.
“I don’t think it will be a straightforward weekend, this could be the coldest track I’ve driven on in some time – I think probably even colder than we get in winter testing,” he said.
“Even in the dry, with such low track temperatures, it’s difficult to get the slick tyres going. I think that will be a challenge in itself.
“There are other variables you’re trying to deal with but I think that will be the big spanner in the works this weekend.
“Once the tyres drop below a certain temperature, it then gets more and more slippery and the only way to get them going again is to go faster and faster yet you’re losing grip, so naturally you’re going slower and it’s a spiral effect.
“To get them going you have to take more risks when the grip’s low, so that’s a challenge but obviously we’re all in the same boat in that situation. It’s whoever holds it together the most, I guess.”
Along with the freezing temperatures, there’s also an increased risk of rain returning on Sunday, and that, Ricciardo thinks, may open the door to a possible podium finish.
“I’ve been saying ‘when was the last boring wet race we’ve had?’ so it does certainly throw some variety and some opportunity,” he added.
“I think for us in that midfield battle, these are the weekends when you really can have a chance and have your moment.”
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And the Australian is certainly a driver in form as only the Mercedes pair have scored more points than the Renault man in the past four races.
“I guess them [Mercedes] being so far in front they don’t really count do they, so I’m pretty much the guy to beat at the moment. I’m the guy with the target,” said Ricciardo confidently.
“It feels good, it feels great. It’s been a good run for sure, so keep it going.
“Obviously I enjoy getting more and more points and racing up at the front so absolutely my intention is to remain that guy.”
