Daniel Ricciardo finished his Aston Martin Red Bull Racing career with fourth place at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Australian, in his 100th and final race for the team, started fifth and despite leading the race before his pit stop, came home in fourth and was a tad disappointed not to finish his time with the team on the podium.
“I would have loved to sign-off this chapter with a podium, so I can’t be ecstatic with fourth and there is a little disappointment there.
“I led for a while which was fun but staying out put me out of touch with the leaders.
“I don’t think we had much of a choice, maybe we could have pitted early and kept track position but nobody thought the supersofts would hold on like they did.
“The pace advantage after I pitted was strong but it fell away quite quickly and I couldn’t make a big enough impact on Max or the leaders.”
Ricciardo admits he hasn’t had time to reflect on the last five years with Red Bull but is very grateful for what they have done for him.
“My thoughts are still on the race but once I cool off I will reflect on the last five years with the Team.
“I would have loved a championship with them but Red Bull brought me my first pole, victory and podium.
“Everything I have done in F1 is down the them and I’m incredibly grateful for that.”
The Aussie admits he would have loved a podium finish one last time for the team but it wasn’t to be.
“The moment before the race with everyone in the garage showing their love and appreciation was really cool and that’s certainly something I will never forget.
“I thank the Team for the last five years and Red Bull for the last 10.
“I would have loved to drink out of my shoe and celebrate with the Team one last time, but now I close this chapter with thanks and love for everyone in the Red Bull family.”
