In the high-octane world of Formula 1, everyone is always under scrutiny. The recently concluded Canadian Grand Prix was one of the most intense races of 2024 so far. The Canadian Grand Prix stood out not only because of the on-grid events but also because of the events unfolding off the grid. Formula 1 fans enjoy a spicy feud, fans witnessed it at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit, last weekend. Enter Daniel Ricciardo and Jacques Villeneuve.

During the Canadian Grand Prix, a series of heated exchanges took place between Jacques Villeneuve and Daniel Ricciardo. The former World Champion, Villeneuve, took on an aggressive stance on the VCARB driver. “Why is Ricciardo still in F1? We’ve been hearing the same thing for five years. We have to ‘make the car better for him, poor him’. No. You’re in F1. If you can’t do it, go home,” the Canadian harshly retorted in the Sky Sports F1 microphone.

However, Red Bull advisor and F1 pundit, Dr. Helmut Marko, thinks it was due to Villeneuve’s ruthless criticism that brought out Daniel Ricciardo’s rivalrous side in the race. Marko appreciated an improved performance in the Canadian Grand Prix, supporting the driver, whom Villeneuve called “childish.” In a recent talk with SPEEDWEEK.com, Dr. Helmut Marko stated, “A word about the Racing Bulls. Daniel Ricciardo had a good weekend. Who knows, maybe he was spurred on a little by Jacques Villeneuve’s criticism.“ Daniel Ricciardo, who started the race from fifth position, could end the race in eighth and secure some points for his team.

At the same time, Helmut Marko wasn’t fully critical of Villeneuve’s comments. “I didn’t hear his comment,” he said. With several speculations on Ricciardo’s future in the sport, Dr. Helmut Marko has chosen not to criticize Jacques Villeneuve, another indication that Daniel Ricciardo’s Formula 1 career might be coming to a close. VCARB’s Yuki Tsunoda received his contract extension, whereas there hasn’t been a mention of the same for Ricciardo. “But Daniel had to beat Yuki at Racing Bulls. This year, that is not the case. It is rather the opposite thing that is happening,” Dr. Marko remarked in this context.

With limited support, the 34-year-old driver from Perth took a stand for himself. Ricciardo has refuted all the criticisms, and it seems he won’t stay quiet any further. Let’s see what Daniel Ricciardo had to say about and to his critics.

Daniel Ricciardo responds to Jacques Villeneuve’s criticism

When one is pushed to the corner, they try their best to retaliate with their full potential. Daniel Ricciardo returned in 2023 with Alpha Tauri (now, VCARB). He hasn’t had the most glorious comebacks. Critics have relentlessly attacked him, trying to persuade him he doesn’t deserve a place on the grid. All the criticism and hatred couldn’t stop Daniel Ricciardo from following his gut into the sport. In the interview with SkyF1 in Montreal, Ricciardo stated, “They can eat s***,” thus stating his point in this battle of words.

With almost no one to support him, but himself, Ricciardo has bluntly expressed his mind on Villeneuve’s criticism of him in Montreal. The eight-time Grand Prix winner replied with equal harshness,” I’ve heard that (Villeneuve) has been talking nonsense, but he always does it. I think he’s hit his head too many times.” And as it seems, Ricciardo, too, won’t leave a chance at silencing his critics, especially those like Villeneuve, who attack him unprovoked.

Unfortunately, this verbal battle has not ceased. With Jacques Villeneuve, referring to Ricciardo as “childish,” it seems he has triggered another round of bout. He expressed his ‘concern’ for people who treat Daniel Ricciardo as their role model. As this battle continues to take foul turns, it will be interesting to see where and when this ends.

What are your thoughts on Villeneuve versus Ricciardo?