Daniel Ricciardo leaves Red Bull Formula 1 team

DANIEL RICCIARDO has confirmed that he will leave the Red Bull Formula 1 team at the end of the year in a shock announcement.

Ricciardo joined the Red Bull family in 2008 as a member of the Junior Team, before making his F1 debut in 2011.

After spending two years with the junior Toro Rosso squad, Ricciardo graduated to Red Bull in 2014, replacing Mark Webber at the team, alongside Sebastian Vettel.

During his time at Red Bull, Ricciardo has won seven grands prix, stood on the podium 29 times, scored two pole positions, and 904 championship points.

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner was quoted in a statement from the team.

“We fully respect Daniel’s decision to leave Aston Martin Red Bull Racing and we wish him all the best in his future,” he said.

“We would like to thank him for his dedication and the role he has played since joining the team in 2014.”

Confirmation of Ricciardo’s departure will have knock-on effects throughout the field, with many having expected the Aussie to sign on again with Red Bull.

Renault F1 confirmed the Aussie will join the French factory team at the start of next season.

“Renault decided to come back to Formula One to fight for World Championships. Signing Daniel Ricciardo is a unique opportunity for the Groupe Renault towards this objective that could not be missed," Renault Sport Racing President Jérôme Stoll said.

Ricciardo has proven to be the most daring overtaker in the field, with an unmatched braking ability. Combined with his growing popularity, his signature is one of the most sought of this silly season.

The Australian currently sits fifth in the drivers’ championship in 2019, following victories at the Chinese and Monaco Grand Prix.