Helmut Marko: Daniel Ricciardo Could Be Second Only to Verstappen in F1

The 2024 Formula 1 season will be a promising opportunity for Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull Motorsport consultant Helmut Marko has revealed. The newly renamed Visa Cash App RB (VCARB) team, formerly AlphaTauri and Toro Rosso, is dominated by a close partnership with Red Bull Racing, ushering in a new era in the sport.On the first day of pre-season testing in Bahrain, VCARB driver Ricciardo impressed with the fourth fastest time. Marco, who was confident in Ricciardo’s abilities, said that had it not been for the backtracking, the driver would have set the second fastest time behind Max Verstappen.

Ricciardo’s cautious approach to testing did not prevent him from delivering a remarkable performance, which indicates considerable potential for both driver and team. Marco highlighted that interference from other drivers on the track had overshadowed Ricciardo’s true performance, but confidence in his potential remained intact.

Marco shared his comments with Auto Motor und Sport: “Had Ricciardo not been interrupted by Pierre Gasly yesterday, he would have set the second fastest lap.” This statement makes it clear that confidence in Ricciardo’s abilities is not just an assumption, but an informed assessment of the driver’s abilities.

The 2024 season means not only the renewal of the VCARB team, but also closer cooperation with Red Bull Racing. The team is determined to challenge the established leaders and consolidate its position on the Formula 1 scene.

His optimism for Marco Ricciardo highlights not only his impressive performances in testing, but also that the driver could play a key role that season, moving him to second place behind Verstappen. The increased partnership with Red Bull Racing, coupled with Ricciardo’s expertise, suggests significant potential in VCARB at the highest level of competition.As we approach the racing season, Formula 1 fans are excited to see how this strategic partnership and Ricciardo’s talent translate into real results on track. The prospect of Ricciardo finishing second, just behind Verstappen, adds further excitement to the 2024 F1 storyline.