McLaren boss Zak Brown claims Daniel Ricciardo was always aware of his contract status with the team.
The Australian was replaced by an F2 driver at the Woking-based team late last year, forcing him to take up the role of third driver at Red Bull for next season.
Daniel Ricciardo somewhere in the world watching Mclaren burn to the ground: https://t.co/B5bWXzUWOo
Brown claimed that the team was transparent in the whole situation, claiming that the British team did not rip Ricciardo off. The American chief claims that much of the hysteria around the matter is due to the media and how it works alone.
He added that due to the transparent nature of the contract situation, Honey Badger is still on good terms with Brown.
Speaking on the matter to Formula 1 News, McLaren’s Zak Brown had this to say about Daniel Ricciardo:
“We were transparent throughout the entire process and I know there was tons of media speculation about when it happened, how it happened. Daniel and I know what really happened and I think that’s why we still have a strong relationship. Everything was transparent, well communicated and there are times when we can tell people what’s going on and then there are other times when we just can’t.”
Daniel Ricciardo on his relationship with Max Verstappen
Despite his infamous collision at the 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo has revealed that he had a positive relationship with fellow Red Bull driver Max Verstappen.
The incident in Baku was one of the most dramatic moments of the race, resulting in a crash that saw both drivers retire from the competition. Despite the high-profile clash, Ricciardo has stated that he and Verstappen were able to maintain a good relationship during their time together at Red Bull.
The incident occurred on lap 40 of the race when Ricciardo tried to pass Verstappen on the inside of a tight corner. The two cars made contact, resulting in Ricciardo’s front wing being damaged and Verstappen suffering a puncture.
Speaking to the Dutch wing of Motorsport.com, Daniel Ricciardo said:
“Obviously there was a crash in Baku. But other than that, I think we’ve always had a pretty good relationship. Very competitive, of course, but also a very good personal relationship, and we also communicate via SMS and stuff.”
The former McLaren driver has returned to his old team to assume the role of third driver and will help Verstappen and company. develop its 2023 challenger, the RB19. It remains to be seen if Red Bull will be able to defend both of its titles at the end of the year.