Ricciardo in Renault gamble

DANIEL RICCIARDO says he has taken “one of the most difficult decisions” in his career after choosing to leave Red Bull and drive for Renault from 2019.

Both Ricciardo and Red Bull have been bullish in recent weeks when asked about what many considered a routine contract extension.

But then Red Bull announced yesterday that the Australian had informed them he would be leaving at the end of the season – with his move to Renault confirmed afterwards.

The 29-year-old has been with the team since 2014, having made his F1 debut three years earlier with the nowdefunct HRT team.

Ricciardo, who also drove for Toro Rosso, has won seven races – with two this season in China and Monaco. A fourth-placed finish at the Hungarian Grand Prix leaves him fifth in the drivers’ championship.

“It was time for me to take on a new challenge,” he said. “I realise there is a lot ahead for 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 have been in the sport, they eventually won. I hope to be able to help them in this journey and contribute on and off the track.”

Ricciardo has signed a two-year deal and will replace Carlos Sainz and drive alongside Nico Hulkenberg.

Renault managing director Cyril Abiteboul said: “Daniel’s signing underscores our determination to accelerate our progress towards the forefront of the sport.”