Max Verstappen pulled no punches as he criticised Red Bull over Daniel Ricciardo’s exit.
After a string of disappointing performances, fans’ favourite Ricciardo was let go by Red Bull after the Singapore Grand Prix, with his VCARB seat being given to highly-rated Liam Lawson.
The New Zealander impressed when he deputised for Ricciardo for five races during the 2023 season after the Australian suffered an injury.
Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, which will take place at the Circuit of the Americas, reigning Formula 1 champion Verstappen spoke about Ricciardo’s exit.
He told reporters: “I think it was quite clear for me, for Daniel, that that was the last race. From my side, I think it could have been handled a bit differently.
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“Also for him, because he knew it, but he can’t say it exactly - it's a bit of a shame.”
The Dutchman added: “He's done a lot for everyone. He's won races. He has had incredible races. I think it deserved a nicer exit.”
After his departure, Ricciardo took to social media to post an emotional farewell message.
The 35-year-old wrote on Instagram: “I’ve loved this sport my whole life. It’s wild and wonderful and been a journey. To the teams and individuals that have played their part, thank you.
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“To the fans who love the sport sometimes more than me haha thank you. It’ll always have its highs and lows but it’s been fun and truth be told I wouldn’t change it. Until the next adventure.”
Verstappen commented: “Head up mate! Many more beautiful moments to come.”
Fellow F1 star George Russell wrote: “Going to miss you mate.”
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Meanwhile, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton simply put: “Legend”.
Ahead of the US Grand Prix, Verstappen holds a healthy 52-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris in the drivers' standings.
However, with the current struggles of the Red Bull still ongoing, there could be a real chance that the F1 title race will go down to the wire with just six races left in the 2024 season.
Do you think Norris can catch Verstappen? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Daniel Ricciardo, Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Formula 1
Marcus Chan