Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo has joined an elite club of Formula One greats by winning the prestigious Trofeo Bandini.
Ricciardo was presented the annual award, named after legendary Ferrari driver Lorenzo Bandini, at a ceremony in the tiny Italian village of Brisighella on Sunday.
Previous winners include countryman Mark Webber, Sebastian Vettel, Fernando Alonso, David Coulthard and Michael Schumacher.
“I was quite overwhelmed with the reception I received at the event – the Italians really love their motorsport,” the 25-year-old said.
“To be awarded with the Lorenzo Bandini trophy was an honour and to join the many great drivers on that list makes me proud.”
Ricciardo has enjoyed a standout first season with Red Bull Racing, claiming three grand prix victories and as many other podium finishes.
He’s the only non-Mercedes driver to have won a race this year.
The youngster from Perth was also surprised with a medal and parcel of specially baked cakes from Ridolfo Basilio – the mayor of Ficarra, the Sicilian village from which his grandparents and dad emigrated.