Daniel Ricciardo’s stint at McLaren was challenging, to say the least. But the other thing that is speculated to have been turbulent in the papaya team was his relationship with his partner, Lando Norris. Over the two years, Ricciardo and Norris had great moments together. And the highlight for them was Daniel winning at Monza in 2021 with Lando finishing behind him at P2.

Now, recently, on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Daniel Ricciardo spoke about his former partner of two years. When asked about Norris’s comparison with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, the Aussie was quoted as saying, “It’s hard to make a direct comparison until he’s been in a top team and he’s not run forward.” 

“I’m obviously not trying to discredit him, but it’s hard to compare until you win and therefore not show how you handle this pressure. This is where I come back to Lewis and say to myself: He won and the car was great, but he still had to face this pressure.”

Ricciardo added, “He still succeeded and accomplished what everyone thought he could do, which is why comparing is complicated. It’s also hard to say if Lando is a bit like Max. But one thing is certain anyway: the kid is very good.”

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Ricciardo plays it safe with the statement. Having driven alongside both Norris and Max Verstappen and tangled in alleged feuds, Ricciardo might have more to reveal soon.

Daniel Ricciardo on his time at McLaren and Lando Norris

Leaving Renault and joining McLaren proved to be a much more challenging transition for the honey badger. During the time he was struggling to finish in the top 10, Norris was consistently aiming for top 5 finishes. This sparked a debate about the team catering more to the Brit and less to the Aussie.

Speaking further in the interview, Ricciardo addressed this speculation and explained his underperformance, saying, “I’m not saying they bet everything on him and nothing on me, but he grew up on this team. It evolves in a very familiar environment and has of course proven its rhythm and speed. Everyone at McLaren is excited about what Lando can do.”

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With Daniel not on the grid next season, he’ll have to take chances to prove his game. Who would you like to see him partner with upon his return?