Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo has played down comments from team owner Dietrich Mateschitz, when the billionaire heavily criticised engine supplier Renault.
In an interview with the Red Bull-owned Speedweek publication, Mateschitz said Renault has chipped away at their motivation to the point of being “tired” of the sport.
Ricciardo however put the comments down to being frustrated about their present situation.
“I heard a few of the comments and I think it was a bit like my comments in Canada – a lot of frustration,” said Ricciardo.
“We’re not in the first two or three races [of the season] anymore, we’re now in the eighth race of the season so the frustration can start to build.
“We know we’re still at a big disadvantage. We were optimistic we’d close the gap this year – I think that’s where the frustration comes from.”
Meanwhile team principal Christian Horner warned that the 71-year-old’s comments should be listened to and acted upon.
“Dietrich doesn’t talk publicly often, but when he does, you have to listen,” he said on Friday.
“He’s expressing his opinions and views. He’s most definitely frustrated at the moment.”
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