"Not getting ahead of myself" - party over for Daniel Ricciardo ahead of F1 triple-header
Daniel Ricciardo is the first to admit his week off after the United States Grand Prix may have been a bit loose.
Daniel Ricciardo fully immersed himself in the spirit of the US Grand Prix. (F1/Twitter)
Arriving at the Mexico City Grand Prix on Thursday, the Australian admitted he had enjoyed the time off.
"It's been pretty cool. It’s been pretty cool."
"I admit, I'll try to post the more fun stuff, there is still definitely some work behind the scenes and still preparations and that, but I guess after a while people get maybe a little bored of just training videos or training pictures."
Ricciardo was visibly at home during the weekend in Austin, and didn't shy away from admitting he kept partying after the weekend was over.
Daniel Ricciardo prepares for the United States Grand Prix. (Supplied)
"I did have a fun week after Austin, stayed in Austin for a little bit, listened to more live music, got my fix."
"There was the Ellen Show which was still kinda crazy, I was pretty nervous, I wont lie, but once I got on I was okay."
"It's like all things, you kinda build yourself up, get a bit nervous, but once you commence, then you're good."
"So that was fun."
"Then Halloween."
"Between America and Mexico, Halloween probably doesn’t get any bigger."
The McLaren driver says he needed the time to unwind before Formula One embarks on another triple-header.
"So that was fun, and now we're here."
"Ready for three, I think what's going to be pretty intense weeks."
"I did [have a bit of a rest]. I am very glad we had that week off."
"Again, I think Ive found a nice balance of enjoying myself a little, but then doing enough to prepare for these three weeks ahead, but still to get… lets say a bit of rest."
Ricciardo said the strain of the grueling F1 calendar does take its toll on his preparation.
"Honestly I enjoy it out here in this part of the world, but to go back and forth, you're dealing with more travel, more time in a plane, more jetlag, so its finding that balance."
"For me personally not only do I enjoy being out here, but I think it’s the right thing for me to do."
"So lets say we did a little extra preparation before Austin to allow this to happen," he cheekily admitted.
As for the Grand Prix ahead, Ricciardo has said he expects the on-track battle with Ferrari to continue.
McLaren are just three points ahead of Ferrari in the World Constructors' Standings.
Daniel Ricciardo let loose in Texas. (F1/Twitter)
Ricciardo believes that the festivities have allowed him to focus his energy once arriving at the circuit.
"It's gonna equal another great result, another good weekend, and that’s it."
"Eyes forward, and happiness, and just.. yeah. Good times."
"Not getting ahead of myself."
"I'm just enjoying it, so we'll keep it going."
