Niki Lauda: 'Daniel Ricciardo first in line for Renault upgrade'

Daniel Ricciardo is all smiles during the Italian GP practice on September 4, 2015
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If Renault bring their new engine to Monaco, the French marque may only be able to supply one version apiece to the two French-powered teams.

If Renault bring their new engine to Monaco, the French marque may only be able to supply one version apiece to the two French-powered teams.

Although Renault has actually slated Canada as the debut race for the 35 horse power, five-tenths-per-lap power unit upgrade, officials are considering fast-tracking the process to Monaco next weekend.

Yet Germany's Auto Motor und Sport reports that the problem with that plan could be a lack of spare parts, meaning that only one works Renault and one Red Bull gets the upgrade for the streets of the principality.

Red Bull would have to decide whether the upgrade goes to teen winner Max Verstappen or the more experienced Daniel Ricciardo.

"Very clearly, I would give the engine to Ricciardo," Niki Lauda, the F1 legend and Mercedes's team chairman, said.

"Max Verstappen is the man of the future, but despite all the hype about his first victory, you have to say that Ricciardo is still the better overall package."

Red Bull are third in the championship ahead of the Monaco race.

Jolyon Palmer of Renault in the paddock during previews ahead of the Formula One Grand Prix of Russia at Sochi Autodrom on April 28, 2016
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