Ricciardo hails a race with 'the best risk-reward of the year'

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Despite its anachronistic complexion as a modern-day F1 venue, Monaco remains the undisputed jewel in the sport's crown and one of Daniel Ricciardo's favourite place to race.

The Principality is also home to the Aussie when in Europe, like it is for many of his colleagues, starting with team mate Max Verstappen, which only adds to the special blend of ease and excitement felt by the Red Bull driver during race week.

"Monaco is my favourite race of the year because it creates the most adrenaline and excitement," says Ricciardo.

"The circuit is insane; I don’t want to say that we shouldn’t race cars on it because we should and it’s the best thing ever, but it’s crazy to think we race around the streets so close to the walls like we do.

"I just love the whole atmosphere, there’s a lot of intensity and the risk and reward is the best of the year. Hopefully, I’ll also get some redemption."

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Indeed, the Honey Badger was dealt a few bad hands around Casino Square in the past, and we're not talking Black Jack.

In 2016, he was on his way to a sure win when a pit stop error by his Red Bull crew snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, a painful mishap that wiped the signature smile from his face for the better part of an entire week.

Still, Ricciardo rejoices at the thought of tackling once again the glitzy Principality's treacherous layout and its many challenges.

The good pace of his RB14 last weekend through the Circuit de Catalunya's twisty third section - the perfect proxy for Monaco - offered an indication of our man's prospects.

"Tabac and the swimming pool, I love all of that. Turns 12, 13 and 14, over the kerbs and pretty much the end of the second sector and start of the third is my favourite," he says.

"The encouraging thing from Barcelona is that we were quick in the third sector and that is probably the closest to Monaco, so hopefully that shows what we can do."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.