F1 | Renault-Ricciardo, the background: McLaren is also close to hiring the Australian

Even McLaren, with a view to 2019, was following in the footsteps of Daniel Ricciardo. The rumors of recent months have found confirmation in the words of the CEO Zak Brown who, to the microphones of racer.com, clearly admitted that he had set up a negotiation to hire the Australian, now Renault's new driver: "We had a couple of meetings, we are big fans of Daniel” - He admitted. “I think he's a fantastic guy and a great driver. How close were we to catching him? I think only Daniel knows the answer to this question.".

Ricciardo, therefore, preferred to marry a continuously growing company such as Renault, rather than one in clear regression such as McLaren. According to Brawn, the lack of competitiveness shown this year by the MCL33 had a significant impact on the decision of the 29-year-old from Perth: "If we had been more competitive, I think we would have had a better chance. I think he had a strong desire to leave and I think he was probably very close to us and to Renault, although in the end Daniel is the only one who can say how close.".

Brown also played down the possibility that Fernando Alonso, whose future is still an enigma, would consider Red Bull as his next destination: “Ricciardo's announcement has no influence on our plans. Red Bull is a great team, but I think Fernando knows what he wants to do. Never say never, but I don't think anything will change in Fernando's world.".

When asked if Carlos Sainz, torpedoed by Renault, is McLaren's main market target, Brown responded: “No, not necessarily. I'm going to keep my plans to myself. Today's news has no impact on my outlook.".