Max Verstappen concerned for ex-Red Bull team-mate Daniel Ricciardo at Australian GP

Max Verstappen has concerns for Daniel Ricciardo at this weekend's Australian Grand Prix. The reigning champion claimed his former Red Bull team-mate was always extremely busy at his home race and that he "never really got to fully enjoy" the experience.

He said being in Albert Park was tough for his former Red Bull team-mate as Ricciardo was just super busy. The Dutchman said it was "very special to have a home Grand Prix" and wishes Ricciardo could enjoy it more than he does.

He said: "I always felt sorry for him because he was always so busy. He actually never really got to fully enjoy it.

"Maybe he manages it differently now but I remember when he was here it was tough, he was super busy in the week leading up to the Grand Prix. So I hope for him that at least he can enjoy it a bit more now because I think it is very special to have a home Grand Prix."

Ricciardo appeared to hit back at the Australian Grand Prix the last time the race was run in 2019.

READ MORE: Daniel Ricciardo fires back at Christian Horner over Red Bull exit

He claimed his preparation was compromised by a lot of off-track activities which hindered his race performance. Ricciardo bounced over the grass at the start and damaged his front wing, dropping him to the back of the field.

He said: "This week's so long. I don't seem to really ever have a good break here. I think we're too busy pleasing everyone else and not worrying about ourselves.

"For sure I'm frustrated this week because again it's like everyone expects so much. But the reality is I've got to show up on Sunday and when the race is over in five seconds, whether it's bad luck or not, I feel like our preparation was not where it should be."

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