Daniel Ricciardo believes changes made to the track used for the Australian Grand Prix will lead to more exciting races.
Melbourne’s Albert Park, home of the Australian Formula One round since 1996, is undergoing its first overhaul in a quarter-of-a-century.
A number of turns are being widened, while the chicane at Turns nine and 10 will be removed to create a straight.
In all, seven of the 16 corners are being modified ahead of this year’s race, which has been pushed back until November as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Australian GP chiefs expect lap times to be five seconds quicker and say the alterations will make for an improved spectacle.
The Australian GP has become the sport’s traditional curtain-raiser, and while popular among fans, the unique nature of the street circuit does not usually create a thrill-a-minute event.
McLaren driver Ricciardo, who was consulted about the changes, said: “Making race days more exciting for everyone is what we all want. We want better races, more battles, and the changes are going to push us towards that.
“I see all of the changes as beneficial. It’ll make the racing closer. I’m pretty confident of that. ”
The Australian GP has been postponed until November 21. Last year’s race was cancelled after a McLaren mechanic contracted coronavirus in Melbourne.
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here