Hulkenberg praises new team-mate Ricciardo: He can do anything

Nico Hulkenberg is ready for the challenge posed by new arrival Daniel Ricciardo, who will join Renault from 2019 after deciding to leave Red Bull at the end of the current year, and branded the Aussie 'a driver who can do anything'.

Ricciardo and Renault shocked the world on Friday by announcing a two-year agreement starting in 2019, after months of intense speculation where Mercedes, Ferrari and McLaren were all mooted as potential destinations for the Australian.

It appeared as if Ricciardo, who had grown tired of playing second fiddle to Max Verstappen at Red Bull, may have to hang around due to a lack of options elsewhere, but Renault have big ambitions and the capture of Ricciardo is a statement of intent to challenge the dominance of the big three of the last few championships.

Hulkenberg, who had taken to Twitter to officially welcome the 29-year-old to the team, also said to German publication Bild that he was excited by the prospect of taking on such a well-respected driver.

He said: "Daniel is a great driver and a man who can do everything.

"I do not have to hide from the challenge that awaits me this season, but for me, having such a great teammate is only positive, but it also shows how serious Renault is, if you're one of the drivers to get the top three in. "

Ricciardo's decision is likely to lead to a shake-up on the grid, with Red Bull perhaps also looking to Sainz, while Charles Leclerc is fully expected to leave Sauber for Ferrari, with Kimi Raikkonen's seat at risk.

Welcome to the family Brooo.. ????????
Looking forward to go hunting together next year! ???? @danielricciardo #F1 #RSspirit pic.twitter.com/4qs4QUZsg1 — Nico Hülkenberg (@HulkHulkenberg) August 3, 2018