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Ricciardo reveals why he isn't at Mercedes

20:10, 01 Jan 2019

byLouis Shaw

Daniel Ricciardo could have been driving for Mercedes in 2019 but has said that he was tired of waiting for a 'black and white answer' from the team.

After impressing many at the beginning of the season it had been expected that the Aussie would find himself driving for either Mercedes or Ferrari. Instead, the former Red Bull driver has joined Renault in a move with left many fans confused.

“I knew talks would take a bit of time probably and again, trying to feel each other out, but it got to June/July and maybe we had spoken a few times and we hadn’t really got anywhere, so if you want me tell me otherwise, I will move on – that’s cool" Ricciardo said to ESPN.

“I guess it gets to the point like that with everyone where you want a black or white answer and that’s it. I guess the games can wear a little thin.

“I don’t even know if it’s games, but circling around the edges, it’s like – just go straight in! But these are all things I will learn, and I am sure there will be another time in my career where I will need to go through this process again."

Renault have been looking quick and every time they have been in Formula 1 they have ended up winning. Therefore Ricciardo could have made the right move.

“I guess on one hand I had teams that really wanted me, and then on the other, there were teams that were kinda half the foot in the door but not really… so Mercedes and that. At times it was confusing for sure, and obviously, you’re trying to figure out what is real and what isn’t, who’s genuine and who is not. Again, that was exciting, but it does keep the mind ticking a little bit.”

It looks like Ricciardo and Renault have formed a strong relationship where both parties needed each other. Fans will be looking forward to seeing how they do in 2019.