Horner insists Red Bull is still giving Ricciardo equal treatment

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Red Bull team boss Christian Horner says Renault-bound Daniel Ricciardo is receiving exactly the same treatment as his team mate Max Verstappen.

With the Aussie leaving Red Bull at the end of the season and in light of Verstappen's consistently better performance in qualifying, the question of whether the emphasis was now firmly on the Dutchman was put to Horner.

"No, not at all. The emphasis is on getting the best out of both guys," the Red Bull boss told Sky F1.

"At each Grand Prix weekend they get the same opportunity.

"It’s down to what they do on the track at the end of the day. That will continue to be the case right through until Abu Dhabi."

Verstappen not happy with low-downforce set-up

Horner insisted that Ricciardo's contribution to the development of the team's car was still sought and valued.

"We’re looking to learn as much as we can. Daniel still gives us extremely good and accurate feedback.

"There’s no difference in the way that parts are being allocated."

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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.