The 2017 season (who will win this year's title is up for anyone to guess) sees some major rule changes going down in the world of F1. This could mean that, as in 2009, we see some teams such as Force India and McLaren surge forward up the grid; and Red Bull could make that final leap to catch Mercedes fully. For Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo, this could be particularly important. Ricciardo is often regarded as the fastest driver on the grid, with many fans wanting to see just what he could do when given the fastest car on the grid, or at least one that can regularly and consistently challenge Hamilton and Rosberg.
The future may present problems
Whilst all these 2017 changes seem promising, 2018 could be very difficult for the white hot Australian. The F1 new guard are coming. 2017 is the last year of Carlos Sainz’ contract at Toro Rosso, and the young Spaniard has already been vocal about wanting a move to a faster seat – with Ferrari and McLaren rumoured to be a possible move. Will Red Bull let one of their prized pupils go? It seems like they may have to, Ricciardo and Verstappen are their golden boys (and rightly so), two of the fastest drivers in the world. Could Sainz young raw talent mean that after what would be nearly 4 years at Red Bull, the Austrian team could go for a change and let Ricciardo go in favour of some new blood?
It might not be likely, but given the situation, and Ricciardo’s longevity with the team, this could lead to a move to a rival team.
Questioned stability of Max Verstappen
However, Max Verstappen's attitude as of late has raised questions about his stability, and this could foster a move for him rather than Ricciardo. It is certainly a compelling situation going forward.
This all is coming together without mentioning emerging talent such as Sergio Perez on the form of his life, Esteban Ocon, Lance Stroll, the potential rebirth of Nico Hulkenberg at Renault, and perhaps most exciting of them all - Stoffel Vandoorne finally being in an F1 seat. F1 is in an exciting period going into 2017 and beyond.
One that may present some tough career decisions.
Enjoyed our team dinner last night. Proud of what we've achieved this season. Lets kick the door off the hinges in '17 @redbullracing
— Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo) November 10, 2016