Ricciardo: Too ‘early’ to commit to Red Bull

Daniel Ricciardo still feels it is “quite early” to confirm his Red Bull future, even though team principal Christian Horner has confirmed they are in talks with the Aussie to extend his current deal.

Team-mate Max Verstappen has ended speculation for now about a move to either Ferrari or Mercedes after he signed a new deal on Friday which will see him in Red Bull colours through to the end of the 2020 season.

With the Dutchman’s future resolved, the focus is firmly back on Ricciardo, who is out of contract at the end of the 2018 season.

“It’s not that I’ve said no to anything,” Ricciardo told Sky F1. “It’s just still quite early I think. People talked about contracts and the silly season for next year but it is still quite early.

“On the positive side, I think his news gives us good confidence for next year. He and his management see a lot of positives in the team to continue like that.

“I’m 100 per cent here next year and I think it gives both of us confidence we will keep progressing the way we are.

“Max gets a lot of attention and he’s broken records for his age.

“As far as what’s happening inside the team, new parts on the car, things like this there has always been equality.

“As far as I’m concerned the [terminology] is media stuff but not anything internal. I have no concern on that.”

Horner revealed prior to Ricciardo’s comments that he is hopeful the Aussie will follow in the footsteps of Verstappen by signing a new contract extension with the team.

“We’ve spoken with Daniel. It’s very clear we want to do exactly the same with him,” Horner added to Sky F1.

“There was a window of discussion that took place with Max and obviously our objective is to retain the two drivers and hopefully we will be able to achieve that until 2020.”