Rather than opting for an evolution of last year's RB19, the Milton Keynes team opted for a bold change of concept that included a Mercedes-style belly solution.
The new car made a splash in testing this week in Bahrain and its performance is believed to put the British team away from their rivals for the start of the season.
Ricciardo, who is part of the Red Bull family, says the determination shown this winter to improve on the already dominant RB19 is perfect evidence of the team's killer mentality.
When asked by Motorsport.com if he was surprised by the RB20, the Racing Bulls driver replied: “I laugh because I'm surprised, but I'm not. I think it's a team that gives its best when it wins. When that happens it's as if they wanted to completely crush the competition.”
Daniel Ricciardo, RB
Photo by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Images
“It's not like, 'Okay, now we're winning. Let's go on vacation.' It's like, 'Let's keep our feet firmly on the ground.' That's where I think they're at this year.” After the most dominant season in 2023, they now come out with a car that made me say, 'Wow'.”
Ricciardo, who raced for Red Bull between 2014 and 2018 and has the option of returning next year, says he appreciates the technical leadership of the team and in particular the mentality of technical director Adrian Newey.
“I feel like they've had the most updates of anyone, and that's saying a lot. I love seeing Adrian by the car. And I don't even feel guilty pointing out Adrian, because I know it's not just him, but it's obviously an important part. And it's very nice to see.”
“Whether I'm part of the family or not, as a fan I love to see this kind of approach and relentless response after such a strong year. In a way, you have to admire it. I know that, obviously, the fans watching from the couch would like that someone to challenge Red Bull this year. But you have to admire their approach.”
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing RB20
Photo by: Steven Tee / Motorsport Images
The RB20's impressive form in testing has already prompted some to suggest it could help Red Bull achieve this year what it didn't in 2023: win every race. But Ricciardo is not entirely convinced that this can happen.
“It seems almost impossible. It's due to the number of GPs there are and whether or not there is a wet race. Although they brought a new car for the 2024 season, and I'm sure it will still be a winner, I don't know: it's too early to be sure it will be as dominant as last year.”
“They will win races, I'm sure, but I wouldn't go so far as to say they will be unbeatable. I think F1 is too unpredictable to say that Red Bull is unbeatable. I think they will do very well but it's too early for everything else now.” .
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