P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Daniel Ricciardo finished the opening F1 test day a positive fourth quickest but played down its significance
Daniel Ricciardo expressed caution despite showing potential against top teams on the first day of F1 pre-season testing in Bahrain. With the fourth quickest time, he acknowledged the need for improvement to challenge the front of the midfield. He emphasized that although excited, they must be cautious and there is still work to be done to close the gap. Ricciardo mentioned a focus on aero improvements to gain valuable lap time and catch up with the top teams. Despite a positive start, he admitted they may not start the season at the front of the midfield but aim to progress towards that goal throughout the season. It is clear that Ricciardo and the McLaren team approach the upcoming season with a balanced mix of optimism and realism.