F1: Ricciardo says he doesn't need a manager

Red Bull Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo believes he could handle contract negotiations himself without the need of a manager should he need to move teams.

The Australian has been linked with a seat at Ferrari next season, as have Nico Hulkenberg and Valtteri Bottas. His career so far has been steered by longtime backer and current employer Red Bull.

When asked if he had considered employing a manager, Ricciardo said: "I've got a small little group around me, just a lawyer and just really myself. I get advice from a few people here and there but I've sort of gone back and forth deciding.

"Obviously, I had some approaches as well with managers, management companies and agencies. Don't get me wrong, I think they've all got something to offer. Up until this point of my career, Red Bull's dominated a lot of the moves I've made and pretty much picked where I go. So I haven't really had the need.

"I've been happy to do it on my own. Obviously, knowing the paddock a bit better now, if I did have to go and talk to someone or negotiate something, I feel I could go in there and do, let's say, the majority of it by myself."

Ricciardo has insisted he retains faith in Red Bull despite its struggles this season and believes his contract is binding, although there have been questions over the team's own longer-term future. The Australian has also acknowledged interest from Ferrari and said he regarded it as "a compliment."

Originally on Autosport.com