JUST IN: Ricciardo’s Skill and Competitiveness: Steiner Highlights His Ability Against Verstappen
Guenther Steiner, the outspoken Team Principal of the Haas Formula 1 team, recently shared his thoughts on Daniel Ricciardo, emphasizing the Australian’s skill behind the wheel. According to Steiner, Ricciardo has consistently shown he is capable of competing at the highest level, even against one of the most dominant forces in Formula 1 today, Max Verstappen.
Ricciardo’s ability to compete with Verstappen was particularly evident during their time as teammates at Red Bull Racing from 2016 to 2018. Verstappen, often hailed as a generational talent, was quick to establish himself as a contender within the team, but Ricciardo was not easily outshone. In fact, during their stint together, Ricciardo managed to outscore Verstappen in two out of the three seasons, proving that he had the speed, racecraft, and mental resilience to compete on equal terms with the young Dutchman.
Ricciardo’s tenure at Red Bull was marked by several impressive performances, including memorable victories in Malaysia (2016), Azerbaijan (2017), and Monaco (2018). His overtaking skills became legendary, with many labeling him the “last of the late brakers.” His fearless approach to wheel-to-wheel battles allowed him to carve through the field in races like China in 2018, where he secured victory with a series of daring overtakes. These traits showcased not only his skill but also his confidence in taking on the toughest competitors, including Verstappen.
Steiner’s recent comments reinforce the belief that Ricciardo still has plenty to offer in Formula 1. Though Ricciardo has faced challenges in recent seasons, particularly during his time at McLaren, Steiner’s words serve as a reminder of Ricciardo’s capabilities. Competing against a driver like Verstappen is no easy feat, and Ricciardo managed to hold his own during their time together—a fact that should not be underestimated.
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the competitive nature between drivers remains a defining feature of the sport. Steiner’s acknowledgment of Ricciardo’s skills brings attention back to the Australian’s potential to succeed. It also highlights the fine margins that exist in the sport, where even the smallest differences in performance can lead to significant outcomes.
If Ricciardo is given the right car and environment, there is no doubt that he can return to the competitive form he displayed during his Red Bull days. Steiner’s comments point to a driver who has what it takes to challenge the best, even someone as talented as Max Verstappen.