Ricciardo looking forward to F1 Italian GP

Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo said the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix on September 6 would be an interesting race in front of the passionate tifosi -- Italian racing fans.

After finishing third in the Hungarian Grand Prix in July, the Australian ended a disappointing 18th in Belgium on August 23.

"It's the only circuit (Autodromo Nazionale Monza) where you expect to be driving through flares! We had that on the warm-up last year, massive cloud of red smoke at the second Lesmo," Ricciardo said on Friday.

"Pretty different, but I like that. The Italian fans are passionate some might say crazy - and you'll really get your fill of atmosphere. The drivers' parade is special, they'll all be there with their shirts off, yelling 'Forza Ferrari'. It's a laugh."

The 26-year-old said braking has always been key at Monza as the car tends to slide around and it becomes quite tricky.

"Braking has become the biggest thing at Monza. It's very tricky to get that right. You're coming down to the first chicane at your highest speed of the year and braking for what is almost the tightest corner in F1, with the least amount of downforce. The car starts to slide around and becomes quite tricky, so getting the braking right is key," he said.

Speaking about how he would approach the weekend away from the track, Ricciardo said, "Driving. Motorhome. Pizza. Firstly it's a nice drive from my home - about two and a half hours from Monaco to Monza. Then I'll stay in my motorhome - but in town rather than at the circuit.

"Finally, pizza. Actually the best pizza in the world. I'm not telling you the name of the place that serves the best pizza in the world in case they run out of pizza but they're in Monza and I'll be there. Happy days!" Ricciardo added.