Giedo ‘encouraged’ by Dan’s promotion

Giedo van der Garde is happy for new Red Bull signing Daniel Ricciardo as his promotion is a sign that if drivers prove themselves they can advance.

On Monday night, Red Bull Racing announced that Toro Rosso driver Ricciardo would race for them next season, replacing the retiring Mark Webber.

The team later spoke of the Aussie’s signing, revealing that they wanted someone up-and-coming rather than a driver with experience.

Ricciardo’s new deal means for the second season running, a young driver has earned a promotion to one of the big teams after Sergio Perez stepped into a McLaren seat this year.

“For them [Ricciardo and Perez] it’s a great opportunity,” the Caterham driver told James Allen’s JA on F1 podcast.

“I’m still very good friends with Checo and I know he’s very happy with McLaren. The results are not going as planned, but he said the team is pushing hard and he’s happy.

“It’s good to see Ricciardo get a seat next to Vettel for next season and I hope he does well. Of course it’s encouraging. I still keep on pushing and see where I end up.”

For now the 28-year-old is seeking a second season in Formula One believing he has done enough to show the teams he belongs.

“It’s tough to come to Formula 1. It took more years than expected to get here. It’s a tough life but once here, I think I’ve proven myself to be quick enough and belong here.”