Ricciardo downplays Horner’s Verstappen plans

Editor

Daniel Ricciardo is not at all worried about Christian Horner’s desire to “build the team” around Max Verstappen, saying they are in “different” situations.

Although Ricciardo and Verstappen are both committed to Red Bull Racing for next season, it remains to be seen whether either – or both – will be there come 2019.

Team boss Horner is keen to ensure that the latter, billed by many as a future World Champion, stays on.

“I think he can see the strength and depth of the team,” he told Autosport.

“He feels comfortable in the team. He’s the youngest grand prix winner, he’s the youngest double winner, he’s the youngest points scorer.

“And Lewis is pretty set at Mercedes, Seb has signed for three years at Ferrari.

“The obvious thing is to build a team around you.

“But it’s down to us to provide him with a competitive car.”

Ricciardo, though, isn’t fazed by his team boss’s comments.

“Max is 10 years younger than me,” he told Sky Sports News.

“I wouldn’t say we’re at different points in our career but, naturally because of his age, perhaps he’s in a different situation.

“That’s probably the best way of putting it.

“But we’re still racing to win, doing what we can, hopefully getting in the middle of Lewis and Seb.

“I’m hopeful of another win this year and hopefully this weekend can be the one.”