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Ricciardo's top priority for 2021 is Renault, not Ferrari

Speculation is rife once again regarding the future of Daniel Ricciardo, with pundits suggesting the Aussie could move to Ferrari for 2021, but the man himself has other ideas, at least for now.

Sebastian Vettel's current contract with the Scuderia expires at the end of the season, and so far there have been no indications that the German will remain with the Maranello outfit in 2021.

Vettel shoots down 'retirement' rumours

Vettel's potential departure could finally bring Ferrari and Ricciardo together, but the Aussie isn't focused on the conjecture.

"I will answer [Ferrari's] calls for sure, but I most importantly want this to work," Ricciardo said in Barcelona, referring to his association with Renault.

"I don't want it to feel like I've just come to Renault, got away from Red Bull and then I’m looking for the next best thing.

"I really want to make this happen and make it work, and obviously the step to that is getting more out of this year than we did last year, and hopefully getting enough out of it that the journey continues beyond my two-year contract."

Regardless of the speculation, Ricciardo says he isn't inclined to devise his future at the current time.

"That's the, let's say, ideal scenario," he added. "To talk about other what-ifs and the future here and there, it's still too early.

"You don't want to rock the boat obviously as well, but… we haven't even started this year, so to already start thinking about '21... I can't think about it now."

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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.