Daniel Ricciardo says a lack of time to react to Oscar Piastri‘s stranded McLaren caused his hand injury, forcing him out of the rest of the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix.
Ricciardo had started the weekend by setting the 13th fastest time in FP2 before his shunt at Turn 3, with the injury to his hand forcing immediate medical attention, which would ultimately end his weekend early.
“The day was going pretty well,” Ricciardo said in a press release. “We made some changes for FP2, and the few laps I did on the hard tyre before the crash felt good; we were building up and improving.
“At that time, we were pretty competitive, and I was feeling positive. I remember coming into Turn 3. I had already gotten into the corner and then saw Piastri.
“So it was either hit him or the wall. When I hit the wall, I didn’t have enough time to take my hands off the steering wheel, so the wheel came and hit my hand.
“It’s really unfortunate and frustrating, but I’ll try to recover as quickly as I can.”
Best wishes to newcomer Lawson
Ricciardo’s rotten luck is Liam Lawson’s gain, as the Kiwi will now debut this weekend and will likely sit in for the 2023 Italian GP at Monza.
Lawson, who currently lies second in the Super Formula championship, is the 10th New Zealander to compete in a Formula 1 race and has previously driven at this circuit during his time in Formula 2.
“Obviously, I’d love to get back soon, but I also want to ensure we do things the right way so I come back strong and competitive.” added Ricciardo. “I wish the team well.
“I’m sorry for the change in plans again. It’s a chance for Liam to have a go, and I wish him and the team a strong weekend.”
