Daniel Ricciardo Searching for New Challenge with Renault

Following the sensational news that Daniel Ricciardo will leave Red Bull for Renault, the Aussie has outlined his priorities. According to him, the decision to leave Red Bull was “one of the most difficult choices” in his career. However, he believes that he is ready for a “fresh and new challenge” with Renault.

“It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far,” said Ricciardo. “But I thought that it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge.

“I realise that there is a lot ahead in order to allow Renault to reach their target of competing at the highest level but I have been impressed by their progression in only two years, and I know that each time Renault has been in the sport they eventually won.”

The French manufacturer took over from the Lotus team at the end of 2015 with a plan to become world champions within five years. This is their third year and they are currently fourth in the standings behind soon-to-be-former engine customers Red Bull.

Ricciardo added: “I hope to be able to help them in this journey and contribute on and off track.”

He will be teammates with German driver Nico Hulkenberg at Renault for the upcoming season. However, it throws into doubt, the future of their other current driver Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard will have to make way for Ricciardo’s arrival. He has an option to return to Toro Rosso if Red Bull choose to promote Pierre Gasly.

Behind door number 2 is a Red Bull slot alongside Max Verstappen, but that seems a little farfetched. Yet another option could be McLaren to replace either Fernando Alonso or Stoffel Vandoorne. In the case of Alonso, the seat could open up if he joins IndyCAR. In the case of Vandoorne, the Belgian has been underperforming a lot in the past few races.