- Red Bull
Ricciardo has earned 2015 drive - Horner
Christian Horner says Daniel Ricciardo has already done enough to ensure he will stay at Red Bull next season.
Though he signed a three-year deal it is not uncommon for teams to add break clauses to deals, allowing them to change driver after one season if necessary. Red Bull Junior Team member Alex Lynn won the opening GP3 race of the season in Barcelona, prompting questions about the team's line-up for next season.
But Horner is adamant Ricciardo has done more than enough in the first five races of 2014 to ensure he will be alongside Sebastian Vettel in 2015.
"I cannot speak highly enough of what Daniel has done in the first five races," Horner said. "He has done a great job this year and he is so calm in the car. He continues to impress us with his speed and his approach.
"He is enjoying what he is doing, and you never see him not smiling. It is a pleasure to have him in the team, and the two guys are working extremely well together."
Horner is adamant Ricciardo will be at Red Bull for the long haul, though he used the opportunity to poke fun at Ferrari's reported pursuit of Adrian Newey.
"We have always believed in stability and continuity. Daniel is on a long-term contract with the team and it will be highly unlikely he will be anywhere else next year - unless of course Ferrari are chasing him as well."
Horner also admits life is easier with Ricciardo at Red Bull after the tension between his predecessor Mark Webber and Vettel in their five seasons together.
"It is a walk in the park compared to previous years. But that is part of the challenge of being a team boss."
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