Ricciardo's F1 recovery reinforced by Gerhard Berger

Formula 1 icon Gerhard Berger has been instrumental in bolstering confidence within Red Bull about Daniel Ricciardo's prowess as a leading driver in the sport.

At 34 years old, Ricciardo, who is romantically involved with Berger's daughter Heidi, was recently the subject of a conversation between the CEO of Red Bull's junior team, RB, and the former Ferrari and McLaren driver.

"We knew he still had the speed," RB CEO Peter Bayer remarked to Sky Deutschland in Miami, noting Ricciardo's improved performance with a new monocoque he had requested before the China race.

"The new chassis may have made a bit of a difference mentally," Bayer added.

"I spoke to Gerhard Berger on the phone and he confirmed that he also had moments like that. . . .