Why Ricciardo thought Verstappen partnership wouldn't work

Daniel Ricciardo says he did not expect to enjoy such a harmonious relationship with Max Verstappen when the Dutchman arrived at Red Bull during the 2016 season. The pair were regularly pitched in on-track battle, but have retained a close rapport throughout.

A collision between the pair in Baku this year might have led to acrimony, but the incident was quickly brushed off as they accepted equal responsibility.

Ricciardo will depart for Renault next year, with Pierre Gasly filling the void alongside Verstappen.

Ricciardo said he would remain friends with the Dutchman on Red Bull's end-of-season podcast, but cheekily added: "Unless we're battling for the same bit of Tarmac. That could always spice it up!

"I'd say the relationship with Max and myself went better than, I'll be honest, I thought it would go. Just our personalities and our self-belief.

"I really believe he thinks he's the best in the world and I believe I am. So, that can obviously clash.

"But we always managed at least 99 per cent of the time managed to keep that in its own little place.

"It was cool, it was a good, hard fight with him and I enjoyed it."

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