WATCH: Throwback to 2011 when Daniel Ricciardo waved Indian Tricolour at Kartavya Path

In 2011, Delhiites got their first live taste of Formula 1 as Daniel Ricciardo took to Kartavya Path (then Rajpath) for a thrilling display of speed and skill. Just 30 days ahead of the inaugural Indian Grand Prix, the young Australian F1 driver delivered a performance that not only left a mark on motorsport fans but also celebrated India's connection to the sport.

The event, titled "Speed Street," saw Ricciardo pushing his Red Bull Racing car to it's limits on the two-mile stretch, reaching speeds close to 270 km/h. The streets of India’s capital roared with excitement as Ricciardo ran his car thrice, enthralling a crowd of 2,000 eager spectators. For many, it was the first time witnessing the raw power of an F1 car live, and Ricciardo's performance did not disappoint.

Here is the video:

Happy Republic Day 🇮🇳❤️

Here's Daniel Ricciardo waving our flag at Kartavya Path back in 2011 pic.twitter.com/JVx8DkyB80

— Anuj Tripathi (@depressedsebfan) January 26, 2023

The moment that etched itself into the memories of Indian fans came after the final run. Ricciardo, in a heartfelt gesture, took hold of the Indian tricolour and waved it to the cheering crowd. The scene was one of unity and celebration, with fans erupting in applause as the F1 star paid tribute to the host country. This simple but powerful gesture symbolized not only Ricciardo's embrace of Indian culture but also F1's global appeal and India’s growing footprint in the world of motorsport.

Ricciardo had replaced Indian driver Narain!

At the time, Ricciardo recently replaced Indian driver Narain Karthikeyan in the Hispania Racing Team for the latter half of the 2011 season, making his appearance on Kartavya Path even more significant for Indian fans.

Speaking at a lively press conference after the event, Ricciardo remarked, "With Karun and Narain racing, it's good for the country. Force India is also doing well." His words reflected the optimism surrounding Indian motorsport, especially with the country’s homegrown talent set to race in the historic first Indian Grand Prix.

Before Ricciardo took centre stage, the event featured jaw-dropping freestyle stunts by the Ghost Riders, a group of five bikers who left the crowd gasping with their tricks. Always one for fun, Ricciardo didn’t shy away from joining the celebrations, dancing with a bhangra troupe and immersing himself in the local vibe.