What did Ricciardo say about his rivalry with Verstappen?

Daniel Ricciardo began his career as a Red Bull Junior driver who got his first taste of the team in 2014 when he replaced retired Mark Webber. Ricciardo had three teammates during his time at Red Bull. The Australian spent most of his time with Max Verstappen in the garage across the street.

From the outside it looked like Ricciardo and Verstappen had a friendly relationship. However, in a recent interview with squaremile.com, Daniel Ricciardo said that the Red Bull drivers were tough rivals.

“We just wanted to end each other’s careers” – Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen had a healthy relationship off the track, but their competitiveness was shown in the race. According to the Australian, both drivers were aware of each other’s speed and therefore had respect for each other. When asked about his relationship with Max Verstappen, Ricciardo said:

“I won races with him as a team-mate and got pole position. I think he always knew I was quick and respected myself. I mean, we never hated each other, we just wanted to end each other’s careers! That easy I think it’s easier for me and Max to be friends now for two reasons, I think one is that we are obviously not in direct competition – we are not trying to basically end each other’s careers ! “

Although Ricciardo is known for his laid-back and sassy off-track personality, under the helmet he is extremely serious. On the track, the Australian is known as the last of the late brakes. Ricciardo specializes in overtaking other drivers and is widely regarded as the best overtaker in Formula 1. According to Ricciardo, he earned the paddock’s respect through his fierce driving style:

“As soon as I could show that I could still be that funny guy, but when the helmet comes off I’ll do what it takes.”

After a short two-year stint at Renault, where he made two podiums, Ricciardo moved to McLaren for the 2021 season. As a partner of Lando Norris, many fans expect a fun and easy rivalry between the two. However, Ricciardo is an extremely tough competitor and will look to take himself and McLaren to new heights in 2022 when the new regulations come into effect.

Published 08 Apr 2021 19:06 CET

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