It was an announcement that rocked the Formula One world earlier today.

Daniel Ricciardo is leaving Red Bull after five seasons.

The Aussie superstar has revealed after this season he will be joining Renault F1, having signed at two-year contract with the organisation.

It was definitely a surprise, as Ricciardo has had so much success with Red Bull Racing, winning seven Grands Prix in his five years with the team.

He already has two victories this season, and currently sits fifth in the points standings, only behind the two drivers from Mercedes and Ferrari respectively.

So, after the shock announcement, the big question is, who do Red Bull snap up to replace the outgoing Aussie?

Well, according to reports in Spain, Red Bull have already identified their ideal replacement, and it turns out to be Toro Rosso driver Pierre Gasly.

The French youngster is about to finish his first complete F1 season, and is 13th in the standings with three top-10 finishes.

Without a doubt it's the opportunity of a lifetime for Gasly, as he will move on to a team known for their dominance, which could lead to his first victory in F1 competition. 

For Ricciardo, on the other hand, his move to Renault is a chance to prove he can succeed elsewhere, ahead of teammate Carlos Sainz Jr., who is driving for Renault despite being under contract with Red Bull. 

As the 2018 F1 season enter its summer break, the reality of these changes will begin to set in, and it will be quite the adjusting process for all parties involved. 

Will Red Bull still be the powerhouse they are without Ricciardo next season? Can Gasly prove that Christian Horner and co. made a good decision? 

No question about it, 2019 will be an interesting year for F1, especially for Ricciardo and Red Bull.