Ricciardo backs Hulkenberg to make F1 return

Daniel Ricciardo has backed Nico Hulkenberg to find a route back to Formula 1, if the German wants to return to the grid.

Hulkenberg is set to spend 2020 out of F1, with Renault set to replace him with Esteban Ocon, while potential moves to Haas and Alfa Romeo fell flat.

A record-breaking decade in F1 is yet to yield a top-three race result for Hulkenberg, whose prodigious junior career has not translated into similar success at the highest level.

While Ricciardo says his soon-to-be ex-teammate remains a sharp racer, he has backed him for success whether he returns to the track or not.

"I certainly think he still has time in the sport if he wants it," Ricciardo said.

"His ability is certainly there to do it. I don't fear for him if he doesn't come back to F1. He's a pretty switched on kid, he's quite business savvy so if he goes on to do other things he'll be okay."

With Ricciardo set to assume senior status alongside Ocon in 2020, he thanked Hulkenberg for the way he has welcomed him to the Enstone outfit.

"It's been pretty easy-going. He has been easy to work with, does what he has to do and doesn't really kick up a fuss," Ricciardo said.

"Also I do believe coming into the season we both had respect for each other and I think that helps, as far as we don't feel the need to do anything weird. I don't want to say I've had that in the past, I haven't had that, but it made the transition of me coming into this team quite easy.

"Pre-season, we had a bit of a laugh, after the races we might go see each other and have a drink at a party."

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