Christian Horner admits Daniel Ricciardo test linked to 2014 Red Bull seat

Daniel Ricciardo of Australia prepares to drive for the Red Bull Racing team during the young drivers test at Silverstone Circuit on July 18, 2013 in Northampton, England. (Getty Images)

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has hinted Daniel Ricciardo’s test this week is a 2014 audition as the world champions look to replace the departing Mark Webber.

The news is a blow for Australian Ricciardo’s similarly 23-year-old Toro Rosso teammate Jean-Eric Vergne, who earlier was also considered in the running for the top seat alongside Sebastian Vettel.

Unlike Ricciardo, Frenchman Vergne has not been called up to test the championship-leading RB9 at the Silverstone test.

“We’re very keen to have a look at Daniel as a prospect for next year”, Horner told British broadcaster Sky.

“It’s a great opportunity for him,” he added.

Horner also said that 2007 Champion Kimi Raikkonen is in the running for the seat.

Asked if it was a two horse-race between the Finn, who drives for Lotus, and Ricciardo, Horner replied, “probably”.