Max Verstappen expressed his disappointment at his former teammate’s abrupt and quiet exit Daniel Ricciardo of Formula 1following the Singapore Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver believes the winner of eight Grands Prix deserved a more fitting and respectful farewell from the sport, given his contributions over the years.
Ricciardo, who ran for RB before being replaced by Liam Lawsonsaw his departure from the team—and potentially the sport—take place without much fanfare. Although rumors swirled about his future, the official announcement of his departure did not come until Singapore GPdepriving him of a real tribute.
Verstappen, who was Ricciardo’s partner at Red Bull from 2016 to 2018, expressed disappointment with the way things were handled, believing the Australian deserved a more dignified farewell given his impact on the sport and his celebrated race victories.
“Yeah, I mean, I think it was pretty clear to me, to Daniel, that it was the last race,” explained Verstappen in an interview with some media. “For my part, I think it could have been handled a little differently. Also for him, because he knew it, but if you can’t say it exactly, it’s a bit of a shame, you know. He did a lot for F1, won races, had incredible races, and yeah, I think he deserved a nicer outing.”
Ricciardo, known for his infectious personality and daring overtakes, was a fan favorite during his time in F1. Despite some difficult seasons, including a stint at McLaren that failed to live up to expectations, his career has been marked by many memorable moments and victories. In Singapore, although there were signs that he knew his time might be up, he did not receive the traditional goodbye that fans, drivers and paddock staff typically expect for a pilot of his stature.
Ricciardo’s post-race behavior indicated that he was aware of his impending departure, but official confirmation from RB only came after the event, leaving many—including Verstappen—feeling that the moment had been poorly managed.
Ricciardo’s recent teammate, Yuki Tsunodaalso shared his thoughts on the Australian’s departure, noting that he learned more from Ricciardo than any other teammate during his F1 career.
“When we spoke after the race in Singapore, eye to eye, we said, ‘Thank you, [nous] We appreciate it,’ and I was a little emotional, to be honest,” Tsunoda said. “I think he was a very good teammate, and the driver I learned the most from out of all the drivers.”
While Ricciardo is now enjoying time away from the sport, seen in relaxed social media posts, his absence from F1 leaves a void for many fans and drivers. Without a major goodbye, his departure from the grid is a reminder of how quickly the F1 landscape can change, even for those who have had a profound impact on the sport.
