Ricciardo is Willing to let Everyone Wait for his Decision

Aston Martin Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo has insisted that there is no rush in signing a contract with his team “soon”. If anything, this is an indication that his future may not be decided until after the summer break.

Much like every other driver on the F1 grid, the Australian’s current deal expires at the end of the season. So far, both Ferrari and Mercedes have been chasing his signature. But he has opted to wait and see who has the best 2019 car.

“I don’t feel like I need to sign anything soon,” Ricciardo said.

“I also want to see what happens with the team and with the other teams as well.

“So we’ll see how the year takes place… I know that at some point, other teams will want to know my decision, but for me, for my mind, it does not matter right now.

“It could be after the summer as well… when I know what is going to happen next year, I’ll be happy to sign something.”

The 28-year-old admitted that it was “disheartening” to see Red Bull struggle in qualifying at the Spanish Grand Prix. What made it even worse was that this was a new upgraded RB14 package.

The idea was that the new upgrade would bring Red Bull closer to Ferrari and Mercedes. Unfortunately, both Ricciardo and teammate Max Verstappen qualified more than 0.6 seconds slower than reigning champion Lewis Hamilton.

Come race day, Ricciardo finished in a lonely fifth. Sadly, the nightmare won’t end there as he predicted grid penalties in the future.

“I don’t think we have the best car to qualify, to be honest,” he said.

“But for sure I can be faster, and I should be able to get more out of the tyres. At times, Renault’s engine has been good, however in some cases it’s been difficult.

“We’re going to get some penalties at some point, though… So it’s clear we can still be a more efficient team. I would say it’s all improving but it isn’t perfect yet.”