Daniel Ricciardo expects Max Verstappen to make a statement at this weekend’s Italian GP. After claiming victory in Zandvoort, Lando Norris used the phrase ‘simply lovely’ on team radio – an expression often used by the Dutchman. Whilst only a small detail in the grand scheme of things, Ricciardo predicts Verstappen will deliver a response on the track.
Ricciardo gives his verdict on Verstappen and Norris
During his time at Red Bull and McLaren, Daniel Ricciardo was teammates with F1’s current Championship leaders.
The Australian is still the last driver to truly challenge Verstappen in the same machinery.
Red Bull’s attempts to replace Ricciardo with a driver of similar calibre have been generally unsuccessful.
Speaking ahead of the Italian GP, the 8-time winner was asked about the title title:
“I’ve had the pleasure of being teammates with both of them [Norris and Verstappen].
“They’re both supremely talented. Lando I think, also, his confidence is growing the longer he spends time in the sport.
“And then the more success he has. Very confident to throw out a ‘simply lovely’ after the race.
“I know, as much as they’re friends, I know the competitor Max is.
“He will not have taken that very nicely or too well. So, let’s see how he responds this weekend.”
Of course, there are important battles unfolding throughout the field.
VCARB continue their fight with Haas for 6th place in the standings – in a rivalry set to continue until the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Ricciardo also has concerns beyond the Constructors Championship. The 35-year-old is still trying to convince Red Bull that he is deserving of a promotion and capable of driving alongside Verstappen.
In many ways, the degree to which McLaren and Norris can progress will impact Red Bull’s decisions.
The defending champions are still evaluating whether to keep Sergio Perez for the long term, even if Christian Horner and Helmut Marko continue to insist they are committed to the Mexican driver.
The unpredictable internal dynamics at Red Bull could give Ricciardo and teammate Tsunoda opportunities to capitalise on.
