Daniel Ricciardo is Not at ‘My Level’, Max Verstappen Explains Why

Max Verstappen is the undisputed No. 1 in Red Bull. But for most of his early years, he was seen as an apprentice to teammate Daniel Ricciardo.

“Certainly, in that period, Daniel had played more seasons, while I was the newcomer,” the current championship leader admitted.

But he also claims, if they were still teammates, Daniel Ricciardo won’t be a match for him.

“I don’t think he would be able to be at my level now,” Verstappen said as reported in Formula Passion.

Ricciardo has been the only driver in Verstappen’s career so far, who was able to ‘worry’ him as a teammate. The Australian had a better head-to-head record over the Dutch in his time at Red Bull.

But Verstappen believes he has gained more experience in the last few years. This has enabled him to express himself better on track.

Since Ricciardo left Red Bull, he has only managed 3 podiums in 3 years, while Verstappen has managed 29.

Ricciardo hasn’t found footing since leaving Red Bull

Daniel Ricciardo hasn’t been able to find stability since leaving Red Bull in 2018.

The Australian who signed for Renault grew impatient with a car that never delivered on its promise.

With his second major career move in less than three years, Ricciardo signed for McLaren, a team that was on a rise.

Currently, in his first season, Ricciardo trails his teammate Lando Norris, who is much younger and relatively inexperienced.

The driver, it seems, is still adjusting to the MCL35, with his only notable moment coming in Monza.

Max Verstappen has been the constant in impatient Red Bull

The fact that Red Bull has no patience for its drivers is not surprising for anyone. And since Day 1, Verstappen knew Red Bull require not only talent but a certain work ethic and mentality.

At this moment, the championship leader is in so much sync with his team that it seems like a perfect marriage, a point strengthened by the constant changes in the other half of Red Bull’s garage.

In the last three years, Red Bull have signed Pierre Gasly, then demoted him while promoting Alex Albon, who they then replaced with Sergio Perez.

As a result, Verstappen has naturally grown and his ascending performances over the years reflect that.

In the last few seasons and this season particularly, Max Verstappen has shown his ever-growing level over the rest of the field, in statistics and mentality.

So, if Verstappen claims a driver isn’t on the same level as him, he arguably has a reason to say so.

Also Read: Sir Jackie Stewart Delivers His Verdict on Lewis Hamilton-Max Verstappen F1 Battle