Ricciardo still the better Red Bull driver - Lauda

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As impressed as he was by young Max Verstappen's triumph in Spain last weekend, Niki Lauda believes that Daniel Ricciardo remains for now an all-round better driver.

Following Renault's decision to fast-track its latest power unit upgrade but with only two new-spec engines available - one for itself and one for Red Bull - because of a shortage of components, the Milton Keynes outfit will have to decide who will be the lucky recipient of the new engine.

For Lauda, there is no doubt that the always smiling Australian should be awarded the new power.

"For me, it's very clear," Lauda told German publication Auto, Motor und Sport. "Red Bull should give the new engine to Daniel.

"I do admit however that the future lay with Max Verstappen because what he has accomplished at just 18-years-old is impressive.

"Max had an incredible win in Spain. But in spite of all the buzz surrounding his success, you cannot deny that Ricciardo still remains the best all-round driver at Red Bull.

"He also has more experience which could prove very important at Monaco."

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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.