Max Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda Praise Daniel Ricciardo Amid Rumors Over His F1 Future

Daniel Ricciardo is the upcoming start for F1

As Daniel Ricciardo faces ongoing speculation about his future in Formula 1, his former teammate Max Verstappen and current teammate Yuki Tsunoda have both spoken highly of the Australian driver’s skill and character. Arriving in Singapore for the Grand Prix this weekend, the 35-year-old Ricciardo once again found himself at the center of questions about his spot on the grid for the 2024 season and beyond. Rumors continue to swirl about whether Red Bull (RB) will retain him alongside Tsunoda or promote rising star Liam Lawson, who impressed while filling in for Ricciardo last year during his injury absence.

Verstappen’s Praise for Ricciardo

During Thursday’s media interviews, reigning world champion Max Verstappen was quick to share his admiration for Ricciardo, who he spent three seasons with at Red Bull Racing. Reflecting on their time as teammates and Ricciardo’s career, Verstappen highlighted the achievements of the eight-time Grand Prix winner.

“Daniel’s a great guy and has proven himself as a fantastic F1 driver,” said Verstappen. “He’s a friend of mine, and being in a position where your future is uncertain is never easy. But Daniel has no reason to feel sorry for himself. He’s accomplished a lot in his career—more than many people could ever dream of.”

Verstappen also offered perspective on Ricciardo’s potential exit from F1, emphasizing that his career would still be seen as a success even if he doesn’t remain on the grid. “Even if this is his last race, Daniel can look back at an incredible journey, something not many people can achieve. There are other racing series out there, or he could just relax on his farm and have fun.”

The Dutch driver acknowledged that, like any sport, F1 can be unpredictable, and sometimes drivers don’t get the results they deserve. “It’s just the way it goes—some people deserve to be here, and some don’t, but that’s life in sports.”

Tsunoda’s Learning Experience with Ricciardo

Ricciardo joined AlphaTauri (previously known as Toro Rosso) in the middle of the 2023 season, forming a partnership with Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver has openly expressed his respect for Ricciardo’s experience and approach to racing.

“I definitely respect Daniel a lot,” Tsunoda said. “He has qualities that I’m still learning, especially his emotional control and consistency. I tend to get more emotional after a bad session, which affects my feedback to the team, but Daniel stays calm and focused no matter what.”

Tsunoda highlighted how Ricciardo’s understanding of the car and various situations has been a valuable learning experience for him. “He’s very consistent in his approach, and that’s something I admire and want to incorporate into my own racing.”

When asked whether he had any say in the team’s decision regarding the 2025 driver lineup, Tsunoda was quick to clarify. “Of course not. It’s not my decision. I don’t know anything about what’s going to happen—it’s all just speculation. The team bosses will decide, not me.”

Will Ricciardo Stay on the Grid?

As speculation continues about whether Ricciardo will retain his seat or be replaced by Liam Lawson, fans and insiders alike are watching closely. Ricciardo’s proven track record and consistent praise from his colleagues suggest he still has much to offer the sport, but only time will tell if he remains part of the F1 lineup for 2024 and beyond.

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