Daniel Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon discuss the Portuguese Grand Prix

Formula 1’s return to Portugal brings several advantages. Beyond the more obvious benefits - promoting the country and the financial return generated by staging the Portuguese Grand Prix - there is another: the chance to interview the stars of the paddock.

That was exactly what happened when Renault Formula 1 drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Esteban Ocon joined Razão Automóvel and several other publications for a round-table “conversation”, held the day before the action began at the Portimão circuit.

As well as discussing their expectations for the Portuguese Grand Prix, they shared their views on the circuit, the prospect of it remaining on the calendar in future, and the outlook for their respective careers.

The first task? Learning the circuit

As the Algarve International Circuit, or AIA, was new to the Formula 1 calendar, our first question for the two Enstone-based team drivers was straightforward: what did they think of the track? Unsurprisingly, their replies differed according to their previous experience of a venue where even the Razão Automóvel team has competed in the C1 Trophy.

Ocon began by acknowledging that he did not yet know the circuit well. However, based on what he had seen in the simulator, he believes the elevation changes that define the Portimão circuit could create interesting overtaking opportunities - something that is not always easy in modern Formula 1.

Ricciardo, meanwhile, explained that although he had raced at the AIA 11 years earlier in GP2, he would need to learn the circuit again. Even so, he had already identified his favourite sections: the opening corner, which is both enjoyable and challenging and could be a good overtaking spot, and Turn 5, where he expects some strong battles as well.

When it came to their overall assessment of the circuit, both drivers preferred to reserve more definite judgements until they had become better acquainted with Formula 1’s new Portuguese home.

What are the expectations?

Although Renault is clearly enjoying a period of growth and improved results in Formula 1, the team and its two drivers remain realistic about their aims.

For Ocon, the priority is to make the most of the car, while noting that the team is fighting for third place in the Constructors’ Championship. Ricciardo is targeting at least a top-six finish and made a light-hearted promise: “this time, if I get on the podium, I won’t forget the ‘shoey’”.

Renault’s expectations are based not only on the confidence both drivers showed the last time Formula 1 visited an unfamiliar circuit, but also on the upgrades the car has received.

Discussing those developments, Ocon said that the chassis, as well as the engine, has shown a strong level of performance and is as important as - or even more important than - the power unit.

For Ricciardo, Renault needs just one thing to get closer to the front: downforce. In the Australian’s view, despite the progress made, the aerodynamic package still needs refining so that it can deliver high levels of cornering grip without compromising straight-line speed.

The future of the Portuguese Grand Prix? It depends on feedback

Looking ahead, the Renault drivers spoke not only about the fate of the Portuguese Grand Prix, but also about what lies ahead in their own careers.

On the future of the Portuguese Grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo summed it up like this: “If it goes well, and the drivers are excited, that can help”. He placed particular importance on feedback from the drivers and on fans’ opinions of Sunday’s race.

The Australian driver, one of the fans’ favourites, added: “Everyone hopes to come back next year, perhaps earlier when there is no rain”. Regarding his career, Ricciardo said that his return to the podium had strengthened his self-confidence and that his goal for the season is to finish ahead of McLaren, his future team.

For Ocon, the prospect of working with Alonso next year - and the Spaniard’s supposedly “difficult” temperament - is not intimidating. He even recalled that Alonso was the only driver with whom he had swapped helmets.

Finally, we asked Daniel Ricciardo what it was like to be one of the fans’ favourites. His answer, delivered in his characteristically relaxed manner, came quickly: “It’s very cool. I have passion for what I do, I race with passion and I think that ends up winning over the fans. One thing is certain: the affection they have for me is mutual”.