Renault F1 Make a Sad Statement Concerning Daniel Ricciardo

The Renault Sport Formula One team is aware that it cannot keep hold of Daniel Ricciardo for much longer. When the 2021 season arrives, the team’s performance in the previous year will decide if Ricciardo stays.

To that end, Renault advisor Alain Prost confessed that the risk of losing the Australian driver is real. So, to try and sink their claws into their star driver, Renault will initiate talks “very soon”.

“We have to say the truth,” Prost confessed. “We don’t have a high expectation about this year. So it’s a shame for Daniel – second year with not a lot (of expectation), but it’s going to be better.

“It’s going to be more his perception of what we could do for 2021, and also being realistic about the offers he is going to have from other teams.”

What options are on the table for Daniel Ricciardo?

Earlier, there were rumours suggesting that Daniel Ricciardo could be primed for a Ferrari seat. The 30-year old stoked the fires as well, when he admitted that he would entertain “all calls” from other teams. This could possibly spook the Renault team and force it to step up its game.

However, team principal, Cyril Abiteboul believes that Renault needs to improve in 2020. He suggested that only then will Ricciardo be convinced to sign an extension for 2021.

“The first thing I think he will want to see is if we are capable of providing him a better car, because if we are not capable of doing that this year, why would we next year?” he said.

On the flip side, if Daniel Ricciardo is lured into greener pastures, Renault’s ability to attract a top driver will take a hit. Abiteboul thinks that the outfit has to become a good team to enjoy a top line-up in Formula One.