Daniel Ricciardo opens “tension with the greatest rival” Verstappen during the Red Bull era

McLaren F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo recently spoke about the “tension” that existed between him and Max Verstappen during their time together at Red Bull Racing from 2016 to 2018.

For three years, the Australian drove alongside the Dutchman, who currently leads the F1 drivers’ standings 19 points ahead of seven-time driver champion Lewis Hamilton. While Ricciardo revealed that the two had a lively relationship at times, he insisted that he still have the greatest respect for the 24-year-old.

Daniel Ricciardo talks about his relationship with Max Verstappen

In an interview with Ariel Helwani on his YouTube channel, Daniel Ricciardo revealed why he was Max Verstappen’s biggest fan after being asked who his favorite driver was on the grid. “I think for various reasons, but Max Verstappen, because you get what you see. He might not be the most approachable or funniest or whatever, but he’s Max. People know they get this very tough racer, and obviously people like that. “

Ricciardo then added that he is more aware of Verstappen’s abilities as he was teammates with him and has known him for a while. “I definitely respect that and I was his team-mate, so I’ve known him for a long time and I’ve also seen him, shall we say, mature and growing. I think what he does is nice.” also related to some. “

However, during her days at Red Bull Racing, the situation was very different as there was “tension” between the two. About the times when they were team-mates, Ricciardo said: “We definitely had respect for each other, but I would say we get along better today than we did then. He knocked me out at the start for a year, I turned him around.” In Azerbaijan we turned each other off. There was definitely some tension. As a rivalry, he’s probably my biggest rival over the years. That doesn’t mean I don’t like him. “

Update on the F1 drivers’ championship: Daniel Ricciardo in eighth place

While Max Verstappen leads the F1 drivers’ standings, Daniel Ricciardo finds himself in eighth place after a slow start to his McLaren F1 career. The Australian scored 105 points ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix this weekend, and his accomplishments this year included a first win for the team in Italy.