Flat-spotted tyres leave Ricciardo with 'strange' session

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Daniel Ricciardo described his afternoon practice session in Baku as 'strange', the Renault driver's day coming to a premature end after he found himself short on tyres.

The Aussie managed a total of just 16 laps on Friday, 15 of which were achieved in FP2 following the cancellation earlier in the day of the first free practice session.

Azerbaijan GP: Friday's action in pictures

It all made up for what Ricciardo described as a very "strange" day.

"It was strange, and then FP2 was probably even more strange for me," said the Renault driver who concluded his session with a lowly P15.

"I missed the last half hour or more. Normally around here it's because you've crashed.

"My reason was flat-spotting both sets. Unfortunately we didn't have any tyres to do a long run. I don't think I've ever been in that position before.

"Obviously it was not cool, it's frustrating, but at least it highlighted some areas we'll work on tonight.

"I wouldn't say I'm concerned, I just know that hour [of final practice on Saturday] we've really got to get into it and be super-efficient."

While team mate Nico Hulkenberg managed to put more laps than Ricciardo under his belt, the German driver's speed was equally depressing, with the pair's underperformance partly rooted in the lack of downforce of their R.S.19.

"I think we’ll sort it out," said Ricciardo.

"Today was for sure a challenge for us. But I’m convinced we’ll sort it out for tonight and get them going.

"I think especially on a low-grip circuit once you switch them on the grip will come quite quickly.

"I’m sure a smile will be on both of our faces once we feel that."

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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.