Amid Takeover Whispers, Daniel Ricciardo Lays Down Expectations From Sergio Perez

The 2023 season of F1 is now underway for hardcore F1 fans following the start of the launches of the liveries for the season. And while Red Bull’s reveal of the RB19 livery didn’t bag as many headlines as they’d have wanted, there were some golden moments from the presentation. This included Daniel Ricciardo present on the main stage alongside Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, the return of the Maxiel, and Ricciardo and Checo interacting and hyping each other a little.

But why’s the third thing above big news? Well, with the arrival of Daniel Ricciardo, there has been a subtle change in the dynamics of Red Bull. And though Red Bull has guaranteed Checo a seat until 2024, tensions are expected to be high, with the honey badger looking for a chance. Despite all the speculation, things appear to be looking up in Milton Keynes.

For instance, during the presentation, Daniel Ricciardo expressed his hope of learning from Sergio Perez and also Max Verstappen. Ricciardo, as quoted by Fox Sports from a Motorsport interview, said, “I always like working with other pilots, because each one has their talent, their strengths and their style.”

He added, “Checo has a lot of experience in sports. His debut was six months before me, so yes, I’m excited to see that and see the dynamics with Max too, and see them as teammates working together.”

READ MORE: “Maxiel Girlies” All Riled Up as Max Verstappen & Daniel Ricciardo Bromance Takes Center-Stage at Boring Red Bull Launch Event

Now, given that Ricciardo’s role is very restricted, reported to be limited only to the simulator and PR work, the role will be more useful because if he does plan to return next year or in the future, staying in touch with a fast car such as Red Bull’s will keep him in shape.

Sergio Perez dismisses Daniel Ricciardo’s threat

Sergio Perez has been an ultimate team player at Red Bull. But he has also been expressive of his thoughts, such as during the Brazil GP incident between him and Max Verstappen. So, this time, as there are speculations about him being under pressure with Ricciardo on board, he addressed the Aussie’s presence and called it a help.

“When you’re at Red Bull Racing, you have to perform at your best; it doesn’t matter if Daniel is here or not because Red Bull can pick pretty much any driver from the grid,” he said, according to Crash.com.

“We are fortunate to have Daniel, with the level of experience that he has. To have him back at the factory with the engineers? When we talk about the car, he knows what we are talking about. To have him around at weekends will really help.”

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For the time being, the chemistry between the three Red Bull drivers appears to be flawless. But Christian Horner will have a hard time keeping it this way because it takes only one weekend to turn the tide.