Daniel Ricciardo happy with Max Verstappen until 2018

Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull Racing in the garage during previews ahead of the Formula One Grand Prix of Russia at Sochi Autodrom on April 28, 2016
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As news emerges that Red Bull's driver lineup is now set in stone for the next two years, Daniel Ricciardo says that he is happy alongside F1 teen sensation Max Verstappen.

As news emerges that Red Bull's driver lineup is now set in stone for the next two years, Daniel Ricciardo has said that he is happy alongside Formula 1 teen sensation Max Verstappen.

Although the Australian had been linked with a move to Ferrari, reports suggest that Red Bull have definitely secured the 26-year-old until the end of 2018.

"There is no chance the driver lineup at Red Bull Racing will change until the end of 2018," Dr Helmut Marko confirmed to Germany's Auto Bild.

He said that he is more than happy with Verstappen, 18, and Ricciardo.

Speaking about team newcomer Verstappen, Marko said: "He has exceeded my expectations and not just because of his victory in Barcelona.

"Mentally he is much older than 18 - he knows exactly where he wants to go."

Ricciardo told Brazilian radio Band News FM that he is happy to have Verstappen as his teammate.

"It's great. Obviously I've been impressed since he came into the team. He is committed, he has a lot of speed and I think he's forcing me to increase my level.

"It has been very positive for the team."

Ricciardo and Verstappen are currently fourth and sixth respectively in the driver rankings.

Toto Wolff the Mercedes GP Executive Director looks on from the pitwall during day four of Formula One Winter Testing at the Circuito de Jerez on January 31, 2014
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