Ricciardo Reveals Jackie Stewart’s Advice: ‘He Prepared Me for the Low Points’

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Daniel Ricciardo’s Journey and Jackie Stewart’s Wisdom

Early in his professional career, Daniel Ricciardo received valuable guidance from the legendary former world champion Jackie Stewart. The Australian driver candidly admits that he initially dismissed Stewart’s advice, but in hindsight, he recognizes that Stewart had a profound understanding of what was to come in Ricciardo’s racing journey.

From Toro Rosso to Red Bull: A Promising Start

Ricciardo transitioned from Toro Rosso to Red Bull in 2014, taking on the role of teammate to four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. Red Bull’s faith in the Australian quickly paid off, as Ricciardo claimed three race victories that year and secured a commendable third place in the drivers’ championship. However, in light of this success, Stewart cautioned Ricciardo to remain grounded and not to get ahead of himself.

Reflecting on Stewart’s Insights

In a recent interview with Sky Sports F1, Ricciardo reminisced about a pivotal phone call he received from Sir Jackie Stewart during his breakthrough year in 2014. “I remember Sir Jackie calling me in the lobby and saying, ‘Listen, if you ever want to talk, just let me know, because it won’t always be as easy as it seems,’” Ricciardo recalled. “At that time, I was on a high. Yes, I didn’t win the championship that year, but it all felt effortless to me.”

Initially, Ricciardo could not relate to Stewart’s counsel. “When he shared his thoughts with me, I couldn’t help but think to myself, ‘Everything is going great for me right now; what are you talking about? There are no struggles here, and I’m not intimidated by anyone!’” he admitted.

The Reality Check of 2015

Stewart’s warning would later prove to be prophetic, as Ricciardo faced a challenging season in 2015. He did not secure a single win that year and finished in eighth place in the championship standings. Looking back, Ricciardo reflected, “In 2015, I instantly understood what he meant. The best strategy is to maintain a balanced perspective—don’t get too high when things go well, but also don’t let yourself sink too low during difficult times. It’s all about riding the wave and staying grounded.”

The Importance of Staying Humble

Ricciardo’s experiences serve as a reminder to aspiring racers and enthusiasts alike about the importance of humility and perspective in the ever-competitive realm of Formula 1. The journey through success and failure can be turbulent, but key figures like Stewart play an integral role in preparing drivers for the unpredictability of their careers. In short, Daniel Ricciardo’s career reflects not .comy talent but also the wisdom he has gained through mentorship and the insights of those who have navigated similar paths.

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