Max Verstappen shows true colours with message to Daniel Ricciardo

Max Verstappen has suggested that Daniel Ricciardo should "chill" back on his farm if the Singapore Grand Prix marks the Australian's final Formula 1 appearance.

Despite previously being in contention for a Red Bull seat in 2025 alongside Verstappen, provided he excelled with the junior team RB, the 35-year-old has faced a tough time. Sergio Perez is now renewing his deal at Red Bull and Yuki Tsunoda is also staying put at RB.

The team also reportedly plan to elevate reserve driver Liam Lawson. It now seems increasingly likely that Ricciardo will bow out of the sport for the second time in three years, with Kiwi newcomer Lawson potentially taking the spot after the upcoming race.

Reflecting on his ex-teammate's possible farewell, triple world champ Verstappen has suggested Ricciardo should take pride in his career achievements. He also hinted that Ricciardo could either switch careers or simply kick back at his expansive Australian home.

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"Daniel is a great guy and he's proven himself as a great F1 driver," Verstappen said. "He's achieved a lot, more than anyone could ever dream of. Even if it's his last race, he can look back at something amazing that not many people can achieve. Do something else maybe? Maybe other racing series? Maybe chill back at the farm?"

Lawson's potential confirmation for the 2025 Formula One season could leave only one spot open at Sauber next year. However it's believed that Ricciardo is not in the running for the Swiss outfit, as per the Express.

Speaking to the press, Ricciardo played down the idea he could be headed for the exit door. However he did ultimately concede that Singapore could be his final race.

He said: "My first expectation is about next year, so that's where I'm at the moment. Obviously, I can't give too many details, but in terms of contract, yeah, our dates pretty much come into this window now. So basically, I do expect a yes or a no for '25.

"I'm aware of some talk and speculation about the rest of the season, but that (being replaced after Singapore), for me, at the moment, I'm unaware of.

"So, the decision I expect is for next year. But obviously, crazy things have happened in this sport, so I'm also not going to stand here too boastful and confident. I believe I will be, but let's see."

Acknowledging the uncertainties inherent in F1, he added: "We know how this sport works. You know, people have not seen through a season before, so it's nothing new in some ways. So, I don't want to also be like, 'oh, 100% I'll bet all my house on it'. I've been around too long."

Throughout his career with teams such as Renault and McLaren, Ricciardo has racked up eight F1 wins and stood on the podium 32 times. Though his most recent win dates back to the Italian Grand Prix in 2021.

The Singapore Grand Prix will take place this Sunday, September 22, at the Marina Bay circuit.

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