- Daniel Ricciardo helped Max Verstappen in potentially his final Grand Prix
- Ricciardo’s future with RB is in serious doubt amid huge speculation
- But he helped Verstappen in his battle with Lando Norris in Singapore
Daniel Ricciardo ensured he didn’t make a quiet exit from Formula One as the Aussie veteran provided the ultimate team move in what could be pivotal in Max Verstappen’s defence of his world championship.
The axe is looming over RB driver Ricciardo, with reports suggesting that the popular Australian will be replaced by rookie driver Liam Lawson at the United States Grand Prix next month.
Ricciardo looked set to slink away from the sport quietly in 18th place, with Alex Albon and Kevin Magnussen having earlier retired from the race, before he took fans and pundits by surprise when he headed for the pit lane with a handful of laps left.
He returned to the circuit on a fresh set of softs and set the fastest lap of the race, which was previously held by race winner Lando Norris.
McLaren star Norris is hunting down Verstappen for the world championship, and Ricciardo’s rapid lap meant the young Briton was denied a bonus point from the race.
Red Bull star Verstappen was informed of Ricciardo’s ultimate team move after the chequered flag and the grateful Dutchman simply said: ‘Thank you Daniel’.
More to follow.
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Read more at DailyMail.co.uk