Daniel Riccardo showers massive praise on Max Verstappen, claims ‘he’s operating at GOAT level’

Max Verstappen has been in sensational form especially during the 2023 F1 season.

Daniel Riccardo showers massive praise on Max Verstappen, claims ‘he’s operating at GOAT level’

Max Verstappen and Daniel Riccardo (Via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen has become the hottest property at the pinnacle of motor racing in the recent years of the sport. He has operated in a league of his own, and amidst his ever-growing stature in the sport, his former teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, has showered high praise on him and said he’s operating at the GOAT level.

Verstappen wrapped up the 2023 F1 world championship during the Qatar GP weekend and backed that triumph with a stunning Grand Prix at the recently concluded United States Grand Prix. He has, over the years, become a lethal force, and the scary part is that he is still improving.

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Just like several people in the F1 paddock, Daniel Ricciardo recognizes the might of the 26-year-old as a racer. While applauding him ahead of this week’s Mexican Grand Prix, he told ESPNF1:

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He's operating at GOAT level at the moment.

This single comment is enough to understand how much Ricciardo respects Verstappen as a driver..2021 was the last time when the Dutchman had to work his socks off against Lewis Hamilton in the world championship fight. In recent years, he really hasn’t had to push himself, but despite this fact, he has been continuously improving, and this year’s stupendous results are a prime example of that.

Daniel Ricciardo could become Max Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate again

While Daniel Riccardo has left no stone unturned in praising Max Verstappen for his F1 exploits, the former’s main goal since returning to the F1 grid has been to secure the Red Bull F1 seat for the upcoming years. Ricciardo ardently feels he can still compete at the north end of the grid.

Daniel Ricciardo (Credits: Planet F1)
Daniel Ricciardo (Credits: Planet F1)

Moreover, considering the way Sergio Perez has been performing at Red Bull, there is a decent chance that he will be sidelined ahead of next year’s campaign or ahead of the 2025 season. If this is the case, Riccardo would be one of the favorites to secure the coveted seat.

Daniel Ricciardo is currently 34 years old and does not have many years left in him. From his point of view, it would be in his best interest that he is able to secure the Red Bull seat at least by the end of the 2024 season. He is desperate to have one last go fighting for the F1 world championship.

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