Red Bull apologises livid Ricciardo over Monaco pit blunder

Johannesburg: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has issued an apology to driver Daniel Ricciardo after the team’s pit blunder cost him victory at the Monaco Grand Prix.

The 32-year-old was comfortably leading the race in wet conditions when he came into the pits for a tyre change, only to find that the pit crew was not ready with right tyres.

Consequently, a pit blunder by Red Bull allowed reigning world champion Lewis Hamilton to win the race and slash down the drivers’ title deficit from Rosberg to 24 points.

Horner said he wants to owe an apology to the Australian driver on behalf of the entire team, Sport24 reported.

Horner believes it was a communication error between the team and the driver and, therefore, Mercedes failed to do justice with Ricciardo after showing superb form throughout the weekend.

Ricciardo, who secured his maiden pole position in Monaco Grand Prix, appeared to be visibly angry after the race, saying he felt hurt to lose the race despite performing well.

Ricciardo is currently standing third in the Formula One standings, trailing by 16 points from second-placed Hamilton. (ANI)