Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has commended Daniel Ricciardo’s performance during the Silverstone Pirelli test and expressed his confidence in the Australian driver’s abilities.
Ricciardo, who was scheduled to participate in the test as part of his third driver duties for Red Bull Racing, demonstrated impressive pace on the track, reportedly setting lap times that would have secured him a spot on the front row of the grid in the previous British Grand Prix.
However, the day took an unexpected turn when AlphaTauri announced that Ricciardo would be joining their team, replacing Nyck de Vries from the Hungarian Grand Prix onwards.
This decision came as a loan agreement between Red Bull and AlphaTauri, solidifying Ricciardo’s return to the team he previously raced for when they were known as Toro Rosso from 2012 to 2013.
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Horner expressed his satisfaction with Ricciardo’s performance during the test and his belief that the Australian driver has not lost any of his form despite being out of the cockpit for several months.
The Red Bull team principal credited Ricciardo’s progress in the team’s simulator sessions, which successfully translated into competitive lap times during the tire test.
He conveyed his excitement for Ricciardo’s loan stint with Scuderia AlphaTauri and expressed anticipation for what the remainder of the season holds for him.
“It was great to see Daniel hasn’t lost any form while away from racing,” said Horner.
“and that the strides he has been making in his sim sessions translate on track.
“His times during the tyre test were extremely competitive.
“It was a very impressive drive and we are excited to see what the rest of the season brings for Daniel on loan at Scuderia AlphaTauri.”
Ricciardo’s return to AlphaTauri also meant reuniting with Team Principal Franz Tost, and the Austrian leader believed that the team would greatly benefit from Ricciardo’s experience.
AlphaTauri had only scored two points in the current season thus far, and Tost viewed Ricciardo’s arrival as an opportunity to improve the team’s performance.
Tost expressed his pleasure in welcoming Daniel back to the team, highlighting his exceptional driving skills and his familiarity with the team members.
He expected a seamless integration and praised Ricciardo’s eight Formula 1 Grand Prix victories, emphasising the immense value he would bring to the team.
“I’m very pleased to welcome Daniel back into the team,” Tost said.
“There’s no doubt about his driving skills, and he already knows many of us, so his integration will be easy and straightforward.
“The team will also profit a lot from his experience, as he is an eight-time Formula 1 Grand Prix winner.
In addition to welcoming Ricciardo, Tost took a moment to acknowledge and appreciate Nyck de Vries for his contributions during his brief tenure with Scuderia AlphaTauri.
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De Vries had competed in only ten races for the team before his departure, and Tost extended his gratitude for the Dutch driver’s valuable input.
He wished de Vries the best for his future endeavours, demonstrating the team’s respect and appreciation for his efforts.
“I would like to thank Nyck for his valuable contribution during his time with Scuderia AlphaTauri and I wish him all the best for the future.”