P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Daniel Ricciardo has endured an underwhelming start to the F1 season but is due to receive a new chassis for the Chinese Grand Prix – something he has been calling for. However, RB don’t believe changing chassis is a “performance differentiator”.
RB sporting director Alan Permane explained the team’s decision to provide Daniel Ricciardo with a new chassis for the Chinese Grand Prix as a fortunate development amidst his challenging start to the F1 season. The chassis plays a crucial role in the car’s structure and safety, according to Permane, emphasizing that it is not a performance-enhancing component. Despite perceptions, Permane dismissed the notion that changing chassis significantly impacts a driver’s performance. The team’s focus remains on improving Ricciardo’s competitiveness in the wake of Yuki Tsunoda’s standout performances. Ricciardo, aiming to match Tsunoda’s pace and contributions to the team’s success, faced setbacks but showed promise in recent qualifying sessions. Permane highlighted Ricciardo’s potential shown during the Melbourne race weekend, indicating a strong performance hindered by unfortunate circumstances.
