Ricciardo not seeking top bull status for 2019

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Daniel Ricciardo has denied his delayed signing of a new contract with Red Bull Racing is linked to him demanding number one status for 2019.

Up until a few weeks ago, Ricciardo appeared to be facing multiple choice for his F1 future, with possible options available at both Ferrari and Mercedes.

However events of late, with both outfits rumored to have finalized their plans for 2019, none of which include Ricciardo, have pinned the driver in a corner at Red Bull, leaving him no other reasonable alternative than to remain at Milton Keynes.

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The seven-time Grand Prix winner, who hasn't been on the podium since his dominant win in Monaco back in May, claims he is ready to extend his lease with Red Bull but won't seek preferential treatment compared to team mate Max Verstappen.

"Not that I don’t want that [number 1 status] but I don’t need that, it’s all right," Ricciardo said.

"Obviously Max is driving well but I genuinely think there have been things every weekend since Monaco which have just been a bit of a disruption or a bit of bad luck.

"Like the front wing and all that with Paul Ricard. Just pisses me off."

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Verstappen's says that he would be more than happy to see his team mate remain alongside him in the bull pen.

“He is a great teammate to have. We have a lot of fun together but also once we are in the car we are pushing each other to a higher level," said the Dutchman.

"I enjoy working with him. He is one of the best teammates to have in the paddock in terms of relationship, but also one of the toughest ones. But I like competition so it is perfect to have him as a teammate."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.