Marko still bewildered by 'strange' Ricciardo decision

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Red Bull motorsport boss Helmut Marko is still at a loss to explain Daniel Ricciardo's sudden change of heart when the Aussie did an about-face earlier this month and announced his decision to race with Renault in 2019.

Speaking to Servus TV, the Red Bull-owned television channel, Marko offered some insight into what occurred behind the scenes on the run-up to Ricciardo's surprise turnaround.

“I can not understand the change,” admitted the Austrian.

“That was a very strange story. The negotiations were difficult. On the Wednesday before the Austrian Grand Prix, I sat with him for two hours and we agreed terms.

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“In Hungary, he said to both me and Mr. Mateschitz that everything fits, he will sign on Tuesday at the test. He did not do that.

“On Thursday afternoon I got a call. He had sort of a strange voice and I told him 'Get to the point! We are adults'. Then he said: 'I'm going to Renault'. "

It's Marko's impression that Red Bull Racing's decision to dump Renault and work with Honda from next season was a critical point for Ricciardo, along with the likely hefty retainer offered to the Aussie by the French manufacturer.

"I can only assume that he does not believe in the Honda project and that Renault offered him a very high amount. But I think 'shoeys' will be hard for him in the near future!

"He was a total of ten years with Red Bull since his time as junior driver,” added the Austrian.

“He probably needed a change of scene. I can understand if he thinks the neighbour's grass is greener.

“On the other hand, it is a pity too. He is certainly one of the strongest drivers in the field. His overtaking maneuvers were just great.

“The others sometimes don't even notice they've been overtaken. In qualifying, he has not done as well as Max however.”

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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.