'It Does Work Me Up': Ricciardo Reflects On Sharp Criticism From Villeneuve

Sunday, 04 August 2024 at 18:00

Daniel Ricciardo reflected on harsh criticism from Jacques Villeneuve ahead of the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix.

The RB F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo was slammed by Jacques Villeneuve ahead of the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix weekend (the ninth round of the season).

The 1997 Champion stated that the Honey Badger shouldn't be in F1 anymore and that he should leave his place to some of the younger drivers.

Ricciardo had not finished inside the top ten in any of the races preceding Villeneuve's criticism. However, he turned this hate into something positive and went on to finish in P8 that weekend.

Speaking to The Mirror after the 14th round of the season in Belgium, the Australian driver recalled the 53-year-old former F1 driver's harsh comments.

"Normally I don't read it, but the team makes you aware of it, to prepare me for things that have been said. It does work me up… this is a world champion as well, in Jacques' case, it's someone who knows the sport."

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"I could comment on other drivers and be like, 'Yeah, he's gone through a rough patch', but I would never talk s**t about someone because I can relate and I know what they've gone through. No-one can strap themselves and do this, it's such a rare sport."

In an interview after the race in Canada, the 35-year-old hit back at Villeneuve, saying he probably "hit his head a few too many times" while playing hockey and that he can "suck it."

"I was more disappointed, but I thought, 'If some people think that way, time for me to remind them that I'm still here'. I used it to my advantage, but it's fine. I know people have opinions. I just thought, 'Don't get agitated, get motivated.'"

At one point before the summer break, there were rumors that Ricciardo might be replaced by mid-season. However, he managed to convince the team from Milton Keynes with his performance in the last few races that he deserves a chance for the remainder of the season.