Daniel Ricciardo has denied rumours that he has signed an agreement with Ferrari regarding talks over a possible seat in 2019.
This week, several well-respected sources came to a greater consensus that the Australian was in talks with the Scuderia to replace Kimi Raikkonen with an exclusivity contract in place meaning he can only talk to the Italian team until June 30.
Unsurprisingly, it was one of the first topics brought up when the current Red Bull driver spoke to the press in Baku on Thursday, and he was forthright in his response.
“I’ve only had talks with Red Bull,” he claimed. “Even already last year we’ve been pretty open with each other.
“Obviously I’m aware of other reports but there hasn’t been anything else so they’re not true, at least up until now, certainly not.”
Some further speculation already hinted at possible salaries with Ricciardo apparently wanting AUS$66m for two years according to one report.
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Nevertheless, the 28-year-old himself insists his decision is only based on one goal.
“The real requirement is to try and put myself in a position to win a world title,” he declared.
“It doesn’t mean where I am currently is not that place but I think that’s why I’m trying to take my time with it is because it’s still too early.
“Obviously we won last race, that was great. Realistically we need to win more than just once in the season to fight for a title so that’s why I’m going to take my time.
“That’s the priority for sure. The financials and all that is definitely behind that.”
