Pilot under fire

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Christian Horner (left) and Daniel Ricciardo(Bild: GEPA pictures)

Daniel Ricciardo is under heavy fire on social media. The Racing Bull driver, who is actually one of the most popular drivers, has incurred the displeasure of some Formula 1 fans with his statements on the affair surrounding Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.

Horner is accused of sending sex messages to a female employee. A complaint was lodged, which was fully investigated and rejected. In the meantime, the lady is said to have been suspended and there is still a lot of excitement. "I hope these things slowly go away and Red Bull can just focus on being a racing team and the issues slowly dissipate. There's a lot of noise at the moment," said Ricciardo on the sidelines of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Backing for Horner, no wonder, Ricciardo has a close relationship with the Brit. The now 34-year-old made the leap into Formula 1 via the Red Bull training system. He drove for the top racing team from 2014 to 2018. "Do I feel with him through all this? Yes, I've known Christian for a very long time. He has always looked after me well. So I hope there will be a fair result and a solution soon," said Ricciardo.

"Sexist"
 While some fans understand Ricciardo's statements, some Formula 1 fans are shaking their heads. Social media is full of criticism, with some even calling the Australian a "sexist". "He has the cheek to act as if the whole thing is just noise. I have no respect for you anymore," one user complains. Another says that he is only making these statements so that he can "one day sit in a Red Bull again". Ricciardo is indeed considered a potential candidate to succeed Sergio Perez.