Daniel Ricciardo, an iconic figure in the world of Formula 1, formerly had a powerful partnership with fellow Red Bull driver Max Verstappen. Their bond was so tight that it earned them an affectionate nickname “Maxiel.” This comfortable friendship, however, finally took an unexpected turn. Though no one expected their reunion after his shift to Renault and then a return to the former team, the duo has a second time come to terms for, and true to their nature, Ricciardo couldn’t resist infusing some humorous banter into their friendship.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, did not disappoint in reinstating the “main character energy” that Ricciardo brings to the team. This time, however, the Australian driver targeted his old teammate and friend, Max Verstappen. Previously, Daniel’s presence was frequently highlighted on Red Bull’s social media platforms, and on one such occasion, the Aussie engaged in a cheerful conversation with Sergio Perez and Max during the F1 race in his home ground which turned out to be a playful mockery.
Daniel Ricciardo is a menace for this 😭 pic.twitter.com/slVGJqw6yN
— t 🌿 (@formullana) May 26, 2023
A video that surfaced on the internet where we see Daniel playfully sharing with fellow drivers as he noticed Verstappen’s remarkable resemblance. He eagerly shares his discovery with Checo, who quickly joins in. The climax, however, occurs when Max involuntarily lets out a chuckle, upon seeing the picture of the so-called doppelgänger who is none other than the sloth named Sid from the movie Ice Age.
Fans react to the “discovery” made by Daniel Ricciardo
Ice Age, despite being an animated movie directed towards children in particular, has had a successful run at the box office, having released the first-ever movie from the franchise back in 2002. Sid, the sloth, is probably the most entertaining character of all, with silly humor and a strange character. While Verstappen is no slacker on the track, the internet, particularly F1 fans, seem to agree. The startling similarity has blown up Twitter like wildfire.
#lookslike Max Verstappen looks like Sid from Ice Age @LeBatardShow pic.twitter.com/tKGY4V1Bwr
— Preston Adams (@MeetThePres0709) March 2, 2023
Max Verstappen and Sid from Ice Age pic.twitter.com/NLR4cWFD3E
— eon🚦 (@strollednslayed) July 13, 2022
Turns out Daniel Ricciardo, but fans have been previously pointing out the resemblance as well.
Not sure if anyone else has said this before but .. there is a striking resemblance between Max Verstappen and Sid from Ice Age pic.twitter.com/3ExejXJhrq
— Cami (@Camiacapybara) July 8, 2022
Max Verstappen, Buz Devri Sid oldu. 😂pic.twitter.com/fmcawcVYlX
— NF Formula (@NFFormula) June 7, 2023
While Max Verstappen has been a hot topic among fans as well as on social media for his arrogant and vile demeanor, many point out that the driver inherits this nature from his father, Jos Verstappen, who was also marred with controversy, however, the former shares a friendly relationship with Daniel Ricciardo and did not hold back his laughter during the incident. Despite holding the position as the reserve driver, fans love the Aussie for his jolly nature and are eager to see him on the track.