By Joey Barnes, Editor-in-Chief
Renault confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo has signed on with a two-year deal beginning with the 2019 Formula 1 season.
The 29-year-old Aussie has been a fixture with Red Bull Racing since 2014, collecting seven wins over that time, including two thus far in 2018. He made his F1 debut with HRT in 2011 before spending the next two years at Scuderia Toro Rosso.
Ricciardo will partner with Nico Hulkenberg and take over the seat occupied by Carlos Sainz Jr., who is coincidentally on loan from Red Bull.
“It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far,” Ricciardo said. “But I thought that it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge. I realize that there is a lot ahead in order to allow Renault to reach their target of competing at the highest level but I have been impressed by their progression in only two years, and I know that each time Renault has been in the sport they eventually won.
“I hope to be able to help them in this journey and contribute on and off track.”
Cyril Abiteboul, Managing Director, Renault Sport Racing, was elated by their biggest signing to date since the French squad’s return to F1 in 2016.
“Daniel’s signing underscores our determination to accelerate our progress towards the forefront of the sport,” Abiteboul said.
“It is also a recognition of the work accomplished over the past two and a half seasons. Daniel’s undoubted talent and charisma are a huge bonus and statement for the team. We will have to repay his faith in us by delivering the best car possible. We welcome him to our growing team in 2019 with a great deal of pride, but also humility.”
