Speculation linking Ricciardo to Mercedes kicked into overdrive at the weekend when the Aussie was spotted leaving their hospitality in the Singapore paddock. Hopes of replacing Hamilton in the long term were recently dented when Silver Arrows boss Toto Wolff claimed that the Brit could continue racing for another five years.

“I’m still keen to be part of F1,” said Ricciardo last week. “Of course, Plan A would be on the grid, so nothing’s changed. But as I said I don’t want to just jump at the first seat available. I know the landscape has probably changed as well at the end of next year with contracts or whatever, so I’m remaining open.

Best F1 Gifts! Click for more!