One of Red Bull's current crop of drivers has declared that he is ready to fight Max Verstappen as he eyes a promotion.
The three-time world champion has been labeled a ‘team-mate killer’ at Red Bull, with Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon swiftly axed for failing to match Verstappen's speed.
Sergio Perez has remained as the Dutchman's team-mate since 2021 but has come under fire for his poor performances this season.
The Mexican has earned 24 points in the past six races, and with McLaren closing in on Red Bull in the constructors’ championship, he was tipped to be replaced at the summer break.
However, Ricciardo has been largely outperformed this season by team-mate Yuki Tsunoda, who recently declared that he himself was ready for the step up to the big team.
"They know my performance and they are happy with my performance," Tsunoda explained to Autosport.
"That's why they extended my contract for next year, so it's pretty clear. I just have to keep performing, keep making them happy consistently, and hopefully, things will come naturally.
"I just keep focused on what I can do but obviously, I'm feeling ready to fight against higher positions and teams, and also fight against Max. But they have to decide."
Currently, Tsunoda is resigned to driving with RB next season, with himself contracted to the team, and Sergio Perez contracted to drive alongside Max Verstappen.
If Perez's struggles continue, however, impressive performances in the second half of 2024 will certainly do the Japanese star's chances of a promotion no harm whatsoever.