JUST IN.Sebastian Vettel honors Daniel Ricciardo for impressive return to Red Bull…read more
Sebastian Vettel Pays Tribute to Daniel Ricciardo for Stunning Red Bull Comeback
Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel has paid tribute to his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo, highlighting one of the Australian driver’s most iconic victories with Red Bull Racing.
The two drivers shared the garage at Red Bull during the 2014 season, forming a memorable duo under team principal Christian Horner. Vettel would go on to leave the team at the end of that season to join Ferrari.
Now retired from Formula 1, Vettel has been active on social media, sharing reflections on his illustrious career. In his latest Instagram post, the German driver celebrated Ricciardo’s dramatic win at the 2014 Hungarian Grand Prix, calling back to a chaotic and thrilling race.
A Memorable Victory in Hungary
The race at the Hungaroring in 2014 was a classic. Ricciardo started fourth on the grid and capitalized on multiple incidents during the 70-lap contest. After crashes by Marcus Ericsson and Sergio Perez triggered two safety car periods, Vettel also had a costly spin that saw him drop from a promising position—he had started the race in P2—down to a disappointing seventh-place finish.
Ricciardo, however, seized the opportunity. At just 25 years old, he delivered a masterclass, overtaking Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso in the closing stages. On lap 68, he executed a bold move on Alonso at Turn 1 to snatch the lead and ultimately secure the second Grand Prix win of his career.
A Lasting Legacy
Ricciardo would go on to achieve eight career wins in Formula 1, building a reputation for his aggressive overtaking style and charismatic personality. Although he was dropped from the Red Bull family in 2024, Ricciardo remains a beloved figure in the sport.
Vettel’s heartfelt post is another reminder of the camaraderie and mutual respect shared by F1 drivers—even after they leave the grid. His tribute underlines just how special Ricciardo’s 2014 Hungary win was, not only to fans but also to fellow racers who witnessed his rise firsthead
