Hamilton: Ricciardo lacks options beyond Red Bull for 2019

Lewis Hamilton claims Daniel Ricciardo doesn’t have an option beyond Red Bull for the 2019 season. His current deal runs out at Red Bull in November and is yet to find a seat.

Hamilton himself hasn’t sealed a deal at Mercedes, but it is looking increasingly likely. Bottas and Raikkonen also remain without a 2019 deal.

“It’s different for everyone so I can’t imagine how he’s mentally positioned himself,” Hamilton said regarding Ricciardo’s future in an interview with Autosport. 

“They’re still a strong team, they’ve got potential moving forwards. I would imagine his future is there, but he’s one of the top drivers so I’m sure there are options for him. 

“Obviously in the top area, there’s only Ferrari and Red Bull and Mercedes that he could consider. But currently here, that’s unlikely. And if you look at Ferrari, I imagine Kimi’s going to want to continue.” 

Hamilton timed a move from McLaren to Mercedes perfectly, having been at McLaren since a very young age. Ricciardo is now in a similar position. And the Brit offered some very simple advice for the Australian. 

“He’s just got to get his head down, and keep doing what he is doing.”