Ricciardo: "It was one of the most difficult decisions in my career so far"

Daniel Ricciardo has commented on his shock move to Renault next season. He's dropped a huge bombshell after talking up that he was signing for Red Bull next year.

"It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far. But I thought that it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge," said Ricciardo in Renault's statement.

The 29-year-old has been at Red Bull since 2014 winning seven races and a further 29 podiums. His most recent victory came at Monaco earlier this season.

He moved on to confirm his decision was based on the development the team have made over the last season and plan to make before 2021.

"I realise that there is a lot ahead in order to allow Renault to reach their target of competing at the highest level but I have been impressed by their progression in only two years, and I know that each time Renault has been in the sport they eventually won," the Australian added.

At the start of the season, the driver confirmed he wanted to move to a championship winning car. With Mercedes and Ferrari seemingly shutting their doors, Renault's development plans are perhaps his next best chance.