High Drama in Hungary: Ricciardo Thrilled, Tsunoda Worried

Ricciardo thrills with a comeback, while Tsunoda frets over his vehicle after a dramatic qualifying in Hungary.

Daniel Ricciardo clinched the ninth-fastest time in the Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying, despite earlier fears of a Q1 elimination and a rapid lap nullified by Yuki Tsunoda’s crash in Q3. Ricciardo expressed satisfaction at having overcome each setback.

“Even when Yuki crashed, you see the red flag on the steering wheel just as you start your lap. I was initially angry, then I thought about Yuki hitting the wall, so I wanted to make sure it wasn’t a severe accident while still feeling angry,” Ricciardo said with a chuckle.

“It was a rollercoaster of emotions. In Q1, we were out, then it started raining, there was a red flag, and then I posted the best lap without the DRS. It was an odd session. When you end up ninth after recording the best time, you feel you could have done better, but we got both cars into Q3.”

“We’ve been quick all weekend, and it’s good to confirm that, to continue. I really hope we can do better tomorrow. I think if there hadn’t been a red flag and I could have completed my fast lap on new tyres, I might have closed in on the Astons or even gained a place or two.”

When asked about the role of pressure in these critical laps, Ricciardo hinted that he was especially keen to perform well because this Grand Prix and the next are pivotal. Is this in anticipation of replacing Sergio Pérez at Red Bull? The Australian remains tight-lipped, but his comments are certainly intriguing.

“I relish these moments. We don’t always get it right, but I love the fast lap, the pressure; I enjoy it. Before this weekend, I knew there were two races before the summer break, and they are more important than ever. I use that to push harder, and that’s why I think we can be even better tomorrow.”

Yuki Tsunoda recounted his dramatic off-track excursion (pictured above) and explained that the initial error was not severe: “To be honest, I just went wide. Half of the tyres were on the grass, but normally, that’s manageable.”

“However, it was wet, and that exaggerated the situation, which is a pity. I’m mostly worried about the car, more than my body. It’s really unfortunate; I hope the car is okay. I’m disappointed and feel bad for the team.”