Daniel Ricciardo is sure McLaren understands his commitment to Renault in their fight for third in the Constructors’ Championship.
The Australian’s run of results since Spa, including two podiums in the past three races, have put the French manufacturer a single point ahead of McLaren and also Racing Point with four races to go, in the battle to finish ‘best of the rest’ behind Mercedes and Red Bull.
Ricciardo has also vaulted himself up to fourth in the Drivers’ standings, 10 points clear of Charles Leclerc with four Grands Prix to go.
But asked about the thought of currently trying to help Renault beat his new employers starting from January, Ricciardo sees it as his duty.
“Not at all,” he told Sky Sports on if there was any “awkwardness”.
“I looked at the team, and I looked at myself, and I really made a promise to them that I’ll do all I can before the chequered flag in Abu Dhabi and there’s no fun and games.
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“I think honestly, McLaren watching, and anyone who really cares and who is a real racer over there at McLaren will appreciate and respect that.
“Then, next year when the page turns, I’m all in with McLaren – but until then I’m going to keep going at Renault.”
Highlighting how strong Ricciardo’s form has been, he remains the third-highest points scorer behind the two Mercedes drivers since the Belgian GP in August.
So it’s perhaps no surprise that the 31-year-old considers 2020 his most enjoyable season for some time.
“I’d probably have to look back on it when it’s all said and done but I think so far, yes,” he confirmed.
“My enjoyment is really high at the moment, I’m loving racing, and I think that was also heightened from the lockdown and missing the competition for a longer off-season.
“Having it taken away I think made my desire to come back a lot stronger.
“2016 was a good year with Red Bull, so this is probably the most satisfying since then.”