Renault question Ricciardo's "unity" and "commitment"

Renault Formula 1 team principal Cyril Abiteboul has heavily implied that Daniel Ricciardo did not share the 'critical values' of the team.

McLaren confirmed the signing of Daniel Ricciardo from Renault for the 2021 season on Thursday morning, and Abiteboul did not mince his words in a response to the move.

“In our sport, and particularly within the current extraordinary situation, reciprocated confidence, unity and commitment are, more than ever, critical values for a works team," said Abiteboul.

"I am confident that the 2020 season will allow us to accomplish even more together. Our ambitions and the strategy of Renault DP World F1 Team remain unchanged.”

It is clear Abiteboul is unhappy with the Australian jumping ship before starting his second, and what will now be his final campaign with the team.

Early indications are that Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso are leading the chase to replace the Australian, with Renault junior driver Guanyu Zhou considered an outside contender, along with former Renault driver Nico Hulkenberg.

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