F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Rosberg retirement a big boost for Ricciardo's chances - Webber

Daniel Ricciardo's title chances have increased meaningfully with the retirement of world champion Nico Rosberg, according to former Red Bull stalwart Mark Webber.

Webber has always been a big fan of the man that succeeded him at the Milton Keynes-based outfit, tipping his countryman for the supreme title sooner rather than later.

"Daniel was probably the most consistent driver in the field this year and he's absolutely world class, in the top three drivers," Webber told The Age newspaper.

Best of ... Scene at 2016

Many are expecting Red Bull to make the most of the 2017 regulation change and banking on Adrian Newey's genius to pen once again a winning car. With Mercedes weakened by Rosberg's departure, in Webber's view, Ricciardo's chances appear considerably boosted.

"(Ricciardo) is in a position to go again next year and certainly vie for the championship if Red Bull can get the car together, because Nico is virtually impossible to replace in the short term at Mercedes.

"Nico and Lewis drove each other to be better, but now they won't have that all-star lineup. Lewis is brilliant and absolutely ruthless, but this will shake up the F1 market."

 Esteban Ocon interview: You're meant to be great when you reach F1

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.

Recent Posts

Ferrari's Sainz 'not satisfied with where we are' in Vegas

It was a solid start to the Las Vegas weekend for Ferrari with Carlos Sainz…

12 mins ago

Norris labels McLaren long-run pace ‘shocking’ in chilly Vegas

Lando Norris didn’t hold back in his assessment of McLaren’s performance on the opening day…

1 hour ago

Hamilton delighted with ‘consistently strong day’ in Vegas

Lewis Hamilton was particularly happy with his opening day of running at the Las Vegas…

3 hours ago

Verstappen stuck with 'draggy' rear wing for Vegas

Red Bull fears that its prospects for this weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix - which…

3 hours ago

Ferrari and Mercedes admit to plank changes based on FIA’s TD

Ferrari and Mercedes have both modified their car’s floor element in Las Vegas to comply…

4 hours ago

Las Vegas GP: Hamilton continues on top in second practice

Lewis Hamilton put Mercedes on top of the timesheets for the second time in Las…

5 hours ago