Red Bull made it clear that Daniel Ricciardo is off the market

F1 Update – Shortly after the shock retirement announcement by the new world champion Nico Rosberg, Mercedes supremo Toto Wolff revealed that the team will begin their task of finding a replacement from Monday.

Wolff is known for his keen eye of detecting future world champions and could opt to go all out for either of the Red Bull drivers Max Verstappen or Daniel Ricciardo.

However, before any potential approach by the champions, Red Bull chief Christian Horner quickly issued a strict warning for them in terms of scouting their drivers for the upcoming season.

Both drivers have qualities to be among the greats of the sports in the years ahead, with Verstappen taking the Formula One world by storm with his breathtaking driving abilities and Ricciardo being one of the consistent performers.

Asked what Red Bull’s stand would be if Mercedes came in with an offer, Horner replied to Daily Mirror, saying: “Our drivers are both on long-term contracts.”

The Dutchman, as well the Australian, have committed their future with Red Bull until 2018, with options of an extension next year.

Big names like Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso could be the other candidates, but there remains some difficulties to finalise any deal.

Button, who has called time on his Formula One career, would have to consult McLaren for their consent to relieve him of his ambassadorial role from 2017, whereas Alonso, despite having a £25million deal with McLaren, could be open to the idea of driving for Mercedes.

Wolff himself manages Valtteri Bottas, and the Finnish star could be an easier option while Nico Hulkenberg could also do a commendable job.

However, both drivers would need to be bought out of their respective contracts with Williams and Renault.

Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton have praised the likes of Ricciardo and Verstappen for their techniques in the circuits, but it would be a demanding task to lure any of the two.

The Brit, however, has clearly stated the one coming in to fill the void has to be accustomed with the rivalry within the team for supremacy.

“If you can’t stand the heat, don’t come. I don’t care who it is. I just want to race.”

It will undoubtedly be one of the highly anticipated stories across the racing world, and before commencing on their plans of developing their cars for the next campaign, Mercedes have made it a priority to identify an appropriate long-term candidate to replace Rosberg.

Category: Formula One