Oct 5th 2014 – Today in post qualifying at Suzuka the drivers had this to say.
Sebastian Vettel, Position: 9th, “I wasn’t entirely happy with that qualifying, we lacked some running his morning but I wasn’t able to go with the track and was on the back foot, I struggled a bit on corners that I normally love, so it’s not easy, but tomorrow we still have a chance if it rains, if it doesn’t then it’s tougher from where we start but we will see. Red Bull and I have had an incredible run together. I’m leaving a very happy place and of course it’s difficult but at some point you want to do something different. We had a good time and I hope we have a good final five races. I’m not leaving because I don’t like the team nor because I don’t like individuals nor the situation, I’m not running away from anything – it felt like the right time and the voice inside me and hunger to do something new was bigger. So, even though it’s not the easiest decision to live with, you have to listen to your heart and go in your direction. I feel ready and the time is right to start something new. It’s a very difficult decision after 15 years together with Red Bull, it’s a tough day.”
Daniel Ricciardo, Position: 6th,
”I was quite surprised by Sebastian’s news, I didn’t know before this morning; it’s two pretty big changes for the team, Sebastian leaving and Daniil coming in, but Seb’s done his work here at Red Bull and he feels it’s time to move on. I’m glad I got one year to race with him and see how he works, I heard a lot about his work ethic before the season and it was good to see that this year and to go against him. Daniil’s coming in and I expect him to be quick – I know him pretty well and it should be good fun working with him. I’m happy with how we bounced back in qualifying after my mistake yesterday, I thought we would be better here, but I think sixth is realistically what we could do today. If it rains tomorrow then we should be looking a bit better”
Red Bull Racing team statement said
”As we wish Sebastian well in the next stage of his career, we also look to the future with excitement, as the vacancy makes way for the next generation of Red Bull racers.”
”The Red Bull Junior Programme has developed some proven talents in recent times, including Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo, who has excelled in the RB10 and become a three-time Formula One race winner in his first season with the team.”
”We’re pleased to announce that Daniel will be joined in the team for 2015 by another rising star from the Junior Programme, Daniil Kvyat.”
