Webber urges Ricciardo to focus on Verstappen, not his contract

Former Formula One driver Mark Webber has urged Daniel Ricciardo to focus more on beating his team-mate, Max Verstappen, in the driver rankings in the 2018 campaign rather than getting distracted by his contract and future with Red Bull, with his deal set to expire after this season.

Ricciardo finished ahead of Verstappen last season, but the latter has already agreed a new contract with Red Bull to extend his stay beyond 2021.

The Australian, meanwhile, has stalled on signing on the dotted line as he wants to see how his new car performs this season, with Mercedes reportedly interested in securing his services if they ditch Valtteri Bottas.

Webber has pleaded with his compatriot to focus on on-track matters rather than contract negotiations.

"I think the best thing he can do is beat Max , which he knows, and he's going to do his best to do that," Webber said.

"He wants to try and have a crack at that for five or six months, then look at the options.

"I don't think Mercedes will be rushing to make a decision either; they're going to keep a good eye on Valtteri and see how he's performing, probably until Canada. That's like dog's balls – everyone can see that coming.

"There's an obvious link – they're both out of contract, he's a top-flight driver, and there's a chance for a switch."

Webber reckons that if Red Bull can provide a vehicle capable of competing for the world championship, then there would be no need for Ricciardo to jump ship to another team.

"If he's beating Max and Red Bull are flying again, why would he leave?" he continued.

"At the end of the day, I don't think Dan's too bothered what colour the car is. He just wants to win. That's what he's aiming to do, and it's hard to win consistently. They don't hand them out.

"He's totally capable of it, but he's just got to find himself in a position where he can get that opportunity."