Horner saw Verstappen get up: "He then managed to shift up a gear"

Ricciardo had a relatively disappointing year with Renault in 2019. Fifth place was still secured in the constructors' championship, but the former Toro Rosso came awfully close. Moreover, the gap towards number four, and main competitor, McLaren, was immense. That's in stark contrast to the year Red Bull Racing had. Max Verstappen took three victories and the Austrian team took many podium finishes.

Horner can't read Ricciardo's thoughts

When asked whether he thinks Ricciardo regrets his decision, Horner answers in the podcast In the Pink: "I think only Daniel can answer that," says the Brit, who thinks that Ricciardo could have done well at Red Bull last season. "Had he been in the team last year he would have been challenging for victories and pole positions but that wasn’t the case. What his thoughts on that are, I’m not a mind-reader.”

Red Bull Racing finished second in the constructors' championship last year. With Ricciardo on board there were undoubtedly more points than with Pierre Gasly and Alexander Albon respectively, although it wouldn't have been a world championship anyway. Despite the fact that fewer points were gained, the departure of Ricciardo has, according to Horner, worked out well for Verstappen. "After Daniel left, Max suddenly recognised the responsibility he had on his shoulders as the senior driver and he definitely stepped it up a gear and became more of his own person."

Compliments for Verstappen

Verstappen did an excellent job, for which he also receives compliments from his team boss. “He shouldered that responsibility incredibly well and the way he’s driven the team forward, the direction he gives from the cockpit in terms of development and feedback, has been outstanding. Max is arguably the most in form driver in the world currently", Horner concludes.