Prost: Renault had to sign Ricciardo whatever the cost

Alain Prost has revealed that Renault was prepared to pay whatever it took to secure the services of Daniel Ricciardo for 2019 and beyond. The Australian surprised everybody earlier this year by announcing he would be leaving Red Bull at the end of the 2018 season and move to Renault.

Speaking to the Guardian, the four-time world champion admitted that Renault was behind their competitors when it came to budget and development rate, conceding that Mercedes and Ferrari were both a step ahead of the French team.

"Every time I can see something that is needed, then I am there," he said.

"Mercedes, they're at the top, and I don't think I would have the motivation. Now it's so difficult to get back to the top that I find it very interesting.

"We are not going to spend money unless we know that it is worth it. Mercedes and Ferrari may have a different philosophy."

Prost also explained that the Renault team was determined to sign the Australian and that his arrival would help propel the team forward and onto a fight with the top teams in F1.

"Daniel is more expensive than other drivers," Prost added. "When you need that to help the team, we did it. Money is not a problem, but it has to be justified.

"We have two top drivers, maybe one of the best lineups in F1 today. They are Renault drivers, not owned by Red Bull or Mercedes.

"It shows everybody outside and inside that we want to do the best, the right choices at the right moment."