Competition Between Ricciardo and Verstappen is Very Intense – Horner

In a recent podcast, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner spoke on a wide range of topics. From the reason behind Daniel Ricciardo’s departure to the relationship between the Aussie and Max Verstappen.

“I guess in his mind he’s felt that after five years he feels he needs a new challenge, a new prospectus” said Horner.

“I think that obviously he’s chosen to join the Renault team, that he feels they’re in the ascendancy.

“He knows the Renault product very well from all the time that he’s spent with us. And I can’t help but feel that he wants to be a leading role perhaps in a smaller environment.

“The competition between he and Max is very intense. Max is growing stronger and stronger. And I think Daniel’s just decided that the timing is right for him to check out and try something else.”

“He sees Max growing and growing in terms of speed and strength and he doesn’t want to play a support role, I guess, for want of better words,” added Horner.

Horner insisted that neither driver is being treated differently. However, he felt that Verstappen’s growth played a large part of Daniel’s decision-making.

Horner also said that Ricciardo was taking a huge risk in his career by signing for Renault. The Briton also stated that they did everything in their power to convince him to stay. This ranged from offering Ricciardo the guarantee of an equal status to complying with the driver’s financial demands.

However, it proved futile as the ‘Honey Badger’ opted to take on a new challenge. Now, the hunt will be on to see who will partner Verstappen at Red Bull. Many have tipped Carlos Sainz as the favourite but Verstappen and the Spaniard don’t get along so well. So, another option that can be explored is Toro Rosso driver Pierre Gasly.