Daniel Ricciardo on helping Max Verstappen against ex-McLaren teammate - “If he wins by a point, I have guaranteed myself a nice Christmas present”

RB driver Daniel Ricciardo made a subtle contribution to Max Verstappen's title bid, stealing the fastest lap point from title rival Lando Norris, in the final laps of the Singapore GP. Verstappen finished second behind race winner Norris, losing seven points to his rival.

Norris held the fastest lap point in the latter stages of the race when RB decided to pit Ricciardo to steal the fastest lap, despite not being in contention for a points-scoring result. This move highlighted the team play between the two sister teams, preventing the McLaren driver from scoring an extra point.

Verstappen thanked Ricciardo over the radio post-race, signifying the importance of a single point in a title battle. Ricciardo was asked about his attempt for the fastest lap in the post-race interview and cheekily suggested that Verstappen owed him a Christmas present if he won the title by a single point.

"If Max wins the championship by a point then I have guaranteed myself a nice Christmas present," he told Sky Sports F1.

Daniel Ricciardo snatched the fastest lap point from his former McLaren teammate, ultimately benefiting his former Red Bull teammate. Max Verstappen expressed gratitude in a conversation with Christian Horner over the radio.

"Your old pal Daniel picked up fastest lap," Horner said. To which Verstappen replied: "Thank you, Daniel!"

McLaren team boss Zak Brown has previously voiced concerns about a single entity owning two teams in F1, specifically criticizing the relationship between Red Bull and RB. Ricciardo helping Verstappen in the Singapore GP is likely to reignite debates about the ownership structure.

Verstappen continues to lead the Drivers' championship, boasting a 52-point advantage over McLaren driver Lando Norris with six races and three sprints remaining in the season.

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Daniel Ricciardo hints about stepping away from F1

Daniel Ricciardo addressed the speculations about his future with RB and the rumors suggesting that Liam Lawson might take over his seat starting from the US Grand Prix, which is a month away.

In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Ricciardo hinted that he may have already raced his final F1 race. Reflecting on his career, Ricciardo expressed pride in his accomplishments, even though he couldn't end it in a fairy tale manner.

"I also have to acknowledge why I came back after the McLaren stint. I always said I don't want to come back just to be on the grid, I want to try and fight back at the front and get back with Red Bull," he said.

"I put my best foot forward, let's say the fairytale ending didn't happen but I also have to look back on what it's been. Thirteen or so years and I'm proud."

Ricciardo added that the fan-voted Driver of the Day award held a special significance for him this weekend, and he will cherish it.