Renault Sport F1 has confirmed that seven-time Grand Prix winner Daniel Ricciardo will join the French squad and race alongside Nico Hulkenberg for the next two F1 seasons.
Ricciardo's move was almost a foregone conclusion after the news of his departure from Red Bull Racing earlier in the day.
Speaking recently about his 2019 prospects, the Aussie admitted that his options were limited, but obviously they included a deal with the French manufacturer which has stated its ambitions of joining F1's trio of front running teams - Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull.
"It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far," said Ricciardo in a statement on Friday.
"But I thought that it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge.
"I realise 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."
Commenting on the Ricciardo's bold move and the prospects of his new recruit, Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul says it underlines a ramping up of the team's ambitions.
"Daniel’s signing underscores our determination to accelerate our progress towards the forefront of the sport," said Abiteboul.
"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."
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