Daniel Ricciardo was once touted to win the F1 championship. That couldn’t happen for multiple reasons, but he managed to win multiple Grand Prix and named himself a fierce competitor.
However, a sad stoppage to his F1 career, as McLaren decided to part ways with him at the end of the 2022 season. The Australian now finds a blessing in disguise, as he has constantly reiterated that he needs a break from the sport.
Though he is not completely going out of the loop. He has been appointed as Red Bull’s third driver, teaming with Max Verstappen again. With this, he can say one name as his favourite.
Also read: Lewis Hamilton believes Sebastian Vettel will be back just as Nico Hulkenberg
Daniel Ricciardo names two-time world champion as his favourite driver
In the last couple of years, Max Verstappen has shown that he is hitting his peak. The Dutch race driver already has two world titles, and he’s only 25. His excellence makes him Ricciardo’s favourite driver.
“For different reasons. I guess Max Verstappen,” said Ricciardo. “He has a kind of his lane, which he gonna stick by. He might not be the most approachable or the funniest, but he is Max, and people know what they gonna get.”
Ricciardo further claims that people also like his hard racing, which he respects. He also praises his former teammate for how he has matured over the years. That’s why Ricciardo also admires him.
Only uphill for Max Verstappen from here?
At only 25, Verstappen is at the pinnacle of the sport. It reportedly got him above Lewis Hamilton as the highest most-earning F1 driver. After winning his first championship he got a massive hike in his latest contract as he takes $60 million home every year.
But for how long that will continue with him is a big question. Currently, Red Bull is in a very strong position and is among the favourites to defend its championship.
So, Verstappen, in all likeliness, is going to continue his winning spree in 2023. Though, Ferrari and Mercedes’ challenge as of now can’t be predicted. Only the winter testing could give a hint of what’s going to come next year.
On the other hand, the wind tunnel penalty to Red Bull can also hit them hard. So, on paper, 2023 is an exciting contest among the big three teams.
Also read: Max Verstappen once tried to convince Daniel Ricciardo to stay in Red Bull
