Horner reveals Ricciardo 'HEADACHE' as huge decision over F1 future looms

Red Bull chief Christian Horner has admitted that fan favourite Daniel Ricciardo previously caused him a huge headache.

Ricciardo has been a part of the Red Bull family throughout his career and now drives for their junior team, Visa Cash App RB.

F1 HEADLINES: Red Bull chief fuming as SHOCK Verstappen transfer rumours discussed

WATCH Norris “not worried” about Red Bull, father Perez hospitalised

READ MORE: F1 vote over NEW drivers' championships given emphatic result

The 35-year-old star has won eight grands prix, including a memorable victory around the iconic streets of Monaco, in what could be considered one of Red Bull's finest moments, and certainly a career highlight for Ricciardo.

In 2024 however, Ricciardo is much further from the top spot on the podium and with his RB contract set to expire at the end of the season, could be looking at a farewell to the sport for good.

Having been frequently outperformed by his RB team-mate Yuki Tsunoda, many in the paddock have questioned Ricciardo's place in the junior team, most notably Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.

Horner admits Ricciardo performance problem

Despite being touted as a mid-season replacement for an underperforming Sergio Perez, Ricciardo's hopes of a promotion back into Red Bull's main F1 team look to be thinning by the day.

In fact, a huge decision on whether or not he stays at VCARB is reported to be looming.

Reflecting on the pair's glory years with Sky Sports, Horner has now revealed that Ricciardo's time as Sebastian Vettel's team-mate at Red Bull delivered an unwelcome surprise.

READ MORE: Time ‘runs out' for RB as Ricciardo faced with career reality

Reflecting on fellow Aussie driver Oscar Piastri's recent success with McLaren despite Lando Norris supposedly being their top driver, Horner compared the papaya issue with his own.

"It was like when Daniel Ricciardo came to us in 2014," the Red Bull chief explained.

"He was clearly meant to be the number two to Sebastian Vettel and he won three races that year to Sebastian's none.

"Sometimes it causes you a headache like that."

READ MORE: Verstappen PUNISHED by FIA following unusual investigation

Related

Christian Horner

Horner leadership style BLAMED for Red Bull decline

• Today 12:57

F1 Opinion

Horner gets DESPERATE with McLaren pay claim

• Yesterday 12:57