via Reuters
Formula One F1 – United States Grand Prix – Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas, U.S. – October 20, 2022 McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo ahead of the United States Grand Prix REUTERS/Ricardo Arduengo
via Reuters
Formula One F1 – United States Grand Prix – Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas, U.S. – October 20, 2022 McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo ahead of the United States Grand Prix REUTERS/Ricardo Arduengo
In this cut-throat business of Formula 1 racing, friendships are difficult to come by. Especially the one that stands the test of time after a little bit of grid shuffling. However, Daniel Ricciardo is an exception to this unsaid rule. There is plenty of respect for Max Verstappen still in Ricciardo’s heart for his “you get what you see” attitude.
The outgoing Australian is the most likable character on the grid. Verstappen, on the other hand, is not! However, the two distinct personalities have maintained a good relationship over the years. According to Ricciardo, it’s because of Verstappen’s extremely honest approach to things. As the kids would say it: Verstappen keeps it real.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ricciardo admires this “he is what he is” nature of the Red Bull man. That’s exactly why he elaborated when asked who Ricciardo is a fan of on the grid.
“For different reasons, I guess, Max Verstappen.” said the outgoing McLaren man. “I think he is what he is. If he doesn’t want to talk to someone in the media or whatever, he won’t! So he kind of has his way, and he’s just going to stick by it and you get what you see. I think a lot of people also admire that and like that.”
“He might not be the most approachable or the funniest or whatever, but he is Max and people know that’s what they’re going to get,” concluded Ricciardo.
There is massive respect in the heart of the Australian for the Dutchman as well, especially because of their time together as teammates.
Daniel Ricciardo explains he has seen Max Verstappen “grow”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The Australian further explains Verstappen’s painfully honest approach to life is not the only thing he likes about him. There is also the racing aspect and how he’s matured.
via Getty
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – OCTOBER 01: Race winner Max Verstappen of Netherlands and Red Bull Racing celebrates with third place finisher Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Red Bull Racing on the podium during the Malaysia Formula One Grand Prix at Sepang Circuit on October 1, 2017 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
“He’s a very hard racer and obviously people like that. I definitely respect that. I’ve also seen him, let’s say, mature, and kind of grow. So, I not only have respect for him, but I think what he does is kind of relatable to some as well,” added the former teammate.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: Red Bull and McLaren Quarrel Over 2022 F1 Cars
In this sport, where your teammate is your biggest rival, these two definitely changed the script.
