Daniel Ricciardo, who won twice in this year’s championship, has announced to depart its way with Red Bull at the end of this season.
Last month, Christian Horner – Red Bull’s F1 team boss – reassured about signing the Australian for the next two years as his contract was due this year. Reportedly they were close to finalize a new deal, which was expected to be announced in August after the summer break.
Ricciardo made his way to podium more than his team mate Max Verstappen and won two races this season.
“It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far, but it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge,” said the 29-year-old.
“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.
“Each time Renault has been in the sport they eventually won. I hope to be able to help them in this journey and contribute on and off track.”
Red Bull on Ricciardo decision
Horner responded on Ricciardo’s decision with respect and told that Red Bull will “continue to evaluate the numerous options available to us” for potential partner for Verstappen.
Red Bull F1 team working with Ricciardo will be “fully focused” for second half of the season.
Ricciardo had been talk of the town as he was associated with Mercedes and Ferrari for a potential driver replacement. But he had hold negotiations with McLaren and Renault, which had eventually proven fruitful.
Australian driver is taking off from Red Bull after 5 years. He had made to podium for 29 times and had won seven races in total.
Max Verstappen contract was due last year which was renewed with lucrative contract.
The last year deal made the Dutchman, third highly paid driver in F1 behind the title contenders Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel representing Mercedes and Ferrari. He was offered more than $25 million, which is being paid to two-time world champion Fernando Alonso at McLaren.
However, Ricciardo performance has been better than Verstappen in both seasons after becoming team-mates at Red Bull. Ricciardo had been aiming for world title next year which had eventually led for a switch from Red Bull.
