F1 legend Martin Brundle weighs in on Villeneuve-Ricciardo war of words: ‘Never the same driver again’

F1 commentator Martin Brundle has spoken out about the war of words between Daniel Ricciardo and Jacques Villeneuve, saying the Australian ‘never looked like the same driver again’ after leaving Red Bull.

Throughout his career, Ricciardo has achieved eight Grand Prix victories and 32 podium finishes, making him one of the sport’s better competitors.

But those results have become difficult in recent years, with podium finishes drying up during stints at Renault from 2019-2020 and a troubled partnership with McLaren from 2021-2022.

Since returning to RB, Ricciardo has struggled, with teammate Yuki Tsunoda generally gaining the upper hand.

Martin Brundle (pictured) gave his opinion on Daniel Ricciardo following recent criticism from F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve

Brundle said Ricciardo (pictured) ‘never looked like the same driver again’ after leaving Red Bull

Former champion Jacques Villeneuve questioned whether Ricciardo deserved a spot on the grid last weekend, declaring his image ultimately saved his career in a savage live TV tirade ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix.

After his best qualifying performance of the F1 season and taking fifth place on the grid, Ricciardo fired back at Villeneuve.

‘I heard he was talking nonsense. But he always does that,” Ricciardo told the media.

‘I think he hit his head a few too many times. So I don’t know if he plays hockey or what.”

Brundle approached the row diplomatically and wrote in his GP column Air sports: ‘For the record, as it has become a hot topic because my Sky Sports F1 colleague Jacques Villeneuve expressed his strong opinion.

‘I have fundamental respect for all F1 drivers, not least Daniel and Jacques, because I know how difficult it is to drive such terrifying cars under those floodlights.

‘Daniel has won eight GPs, including an excellent victory in Monaco, scored 32 podiums and regularly showcased world-class talent.

Former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve wondered why Daniel Ricciardo is still in F1

‘But those results were a while ago and I wish he hadn’t left Red Bull at the end of 2018. That was an emotional and flawed decision, he should have met Max in the best car and he would have done that. necessarily elevated his game even further.’

Brundle believes the Australian driver has never been ‘quite the same driver’ since leaving Red Bull at the end of the 2018 season.

“Ricciardo never seemed to be the same driver again,” he wrote.

“He clearly still has speed and racing skills, as we saw at the Miami Sprint, but something in his psyche or approach is holding that back and costing him opportunity and longevity.”