Former Red Bull teammates Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen were full of praise for each other at the Singapore Grand Prix, where it became clear the Australian was competing in his final Formula race. 1 with Visa Cash App RB.
During the Singapore Grand Prix won by Lando Norris, Daniel Ricciardo had to answer many questions regarding his future, with the Australian knowing full well that this was probably his last race weekend in the premier class, before the official announcement came a few days later.
As rumors continued to circulate in the paddock, three-time world champion Max Verstappen paid tribute to Daniel Ricciardo with whom he rode at Red Bull in the past, with the Dutchman highlighting the impact the Australian had. in the sport since his debut in 2011.
« Daniel and I, of course, have a long history of friendship. We’ve always had a great relationship, a great friendship, a lot of respect for each other as well, he’s just a great guy. » Verstappen told Sky Sports in Singapore.
« We get along well, it works. There are no pretenses, we get along well, we’re easy to get along with, that’s how it is. »
« He will be remembered as a very fast driver, and I think everyone knows that, but also as a great guy in the paddock. »
After seeing the comments of his former teammate and friend, Daniel Ricciardo also shared some positive words about the Dutchman.
“It’s funny, because as teammates, we know each other better. We spend so much time together, we see all the data, we see everything. » Ricciardo said.
“From a professional point of view, we can get into each other’s heads. I’ve gotten to know the way he thinks, he knows the way I think, so it’s a strange kind of intimacy. After my time at Red Bull, he won championships. I think at the time we had such a rivalry, but also a nice…we appreciated that, it became a real respect. »
Daniel Ricciardo also revealed the existence of a particularly encouraging message from Max Verstappen at the start of the 2024 season after a few difficult races for the Australian which caused a first wave of speculation about his future.
“Max has become a very good driver, but also a very mature young man. He was always very grateful for our friendship. » Ricciardo continued.
“Even after Japan this year, I got a lot of criticism, and he was one of the only guys who messaged me and said, ‘Dude, hold your head up, we know what you’re like able. Don’t listen to rumors.’ So, I respect him and I appreciate him a lot. »
Daniel Ricciardo is now replaced by New Zealander Liam Lawson from the 2024 United States Grand Prix scheduled for the end of October in Austin, Texas.
