Daniel Ricciardo agrees Renault switch

Daniel Ricciardo has joined Renault for the 2019 Formula One season following the announcement of his imminent Red Bull departure.

Ricciardo has signed a two-year deal and will line up alongside current Renault man Nico Hulkenberg, seemingly clearing a path for Carlos Sainz Jr to return to Red Bull in the Australian's place when his loan deal expires.

The signing of Ricciardo comes as something of a coup for Renault, with a stay at Red Bull expected after talk of interest from Mercedes and Ferrari died down.

The 29-year-old said: "It was probably one of the most difficult decisions to take in my career so far, but I thought that it was time for me to take on a fresh and new challenge.

"I realise that there is a lot ahead in order to allow Renault to reach their target of competing at the highest level but I have been impressed by their progression in only two years.

"I know that each time Renault has been in the sport they eventually won. I hope to be able to help them in this journey and contribute on and off track."

And team president Jerome Stoll believes that Ricciardo's arrival can make Renault truly competitive again in F1.

"Renault decided to come back to Formula One to fight for world championships," he said. "Signing Daniel Ricciardo is a unique opportunity for the Groupe Renault towards this objective that could not be missed.

"We welcome Daniel's arrival to our team, still in the making, but more motivated than ever."

Managing director Cyril Abiteboul added: "Daniel's signing underscores our determination to accelerate our progress towards the forefront of the sport. It is also a recognition of the work accomplished over the past two and a half seasons.

"Daniel's undoubted talent and charisma are a huge bonus and statement for the team. We will have to repay his faith in us by delivering the best car possible.

"We welcome him to our growing team in 2019 with a great deal of pride, but also humility."