Daniel Ricciardo has been mobbed by adoring fans in Melbourne on his way to contest this afternoon's Australian Formula One Grand Prix.
Ricciardo was all smiles when he arrived at the Albert Park track, signing autographs and greeting fans.
Although appearing relaxed, the Aussie Red Bull driver will have his work cut out for him in the season opening race, with a spin-out in qualifying leaving him 10th on the grid.
British Mercedes superstar Lewis Hamilton has secured pole while Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel will start the 58-lap race beside him.
#AusGP@AussieGrit@danielricciardopic.twitter.com/72PnZ9FWQW
— Daniel Brewer (@danbrewerradio) March 26, 2017
@danielricciardo still all smiles as he's mobbed by fans @ausgrandprix@F1@redbullracing@tennewsmelb#TenNewspic.twitter.com/M0IJdVDjVu
— Katherine Firkin (@KatherineFirkin) March 26, 2017
Despite the setback in qualifying, Ricciardo's legion of local supporters will be hoping the 27-year-old can improve on his 4th place last year in Melbourne.
A podium result would be an ideal start to the Aussie's 2017 campaign after finishing third in last year's drivers' championship.
Race start is scheduled for 4pm local time.
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