The chart-topping American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has seemingly collided with the F1 world – much without her knowing.
Stories have unravelled linking the two-time World Champion Fernando Alonso with the star.
Instead of closing the door on such rumours, the Spaniard opted to have a little fun of his own.
Alonso posted various videos on social media of him listening to Swift’s songs, ending the clips with a cheeky wink and sending fans into hysteria.
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However, at no point had there been any concrete proof to these rumours and one man who never thought such a romance was on the cards was none other than Daniel Ricciardo.
The Aussie legend sat down with ESPN recently. When quizzed on which F1 driver he deemed most likely to date Taylor Swift he was quick to shut down speculation.
“Definitely not Alonso!” he said.
“I called BS on that from the start! And I hope I wasn’t the only one. So let’s just clear that one up!”
When asked who, Ricciardo claimed: “Someone who is into the arts. She strikes me as a pure artist.”
Then Charles Leclerc was mentioned.
“He’s got the piano going…”
Nyck de Vries was mentioned as a musician also.
“They have got a starting chance, for sure. Anyone who appreciates the arts!
“Alonso? He appreciates racing. Only racing.
“Anytime I see him do anything, it’s just racing! I quickly cancelled him out of the conversation. Let’s be nice! We are getting some giggles…”
Daniel Ricciardo has been without an F1 seat this season having re-joined Red Bull as a reserve driver.
It was a turbulent two years for Ricciardo at Mclaren as teammate Lando Norris consistently got the upper hand.
Nonetheless, the eight-time Grand Prix winner will be focused on regaining form and finding a team to compete in the 2024 season.
His personality and presence have made him a popular figure in the sport and fans around the globe will be eager to see the Australian return to the track.
AlphaTauri boss Helmut Marko shut down the chances of Ricciardo joining the fold in replacement of struggling rookie Nyck De Vries.
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De Vries finds himself struggling for form in his debut season, failing to register a single point after the first five races.
The Dutchman has not been able to capitalise on a season best of 14th thus far, with the pressure mounting.
Helmut Marko has insisted the team are willing to give De Vries longer to adjust, stating:
“We have spoken to De Vries and he is of the same opinion as we are: He has to improve.”