Daniel Ricciardo denies the ordeal of having his McLaren F1 contract terminated a year early has broken him.
Daniel Ricciardo, 33, was ousted from McLaren after joining at the start of last season, replacing fellow Australian youngster Oscar Piastri in 2023.
The story grabbed the public’s attention despite Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren remaining silent until August 24, when they confirmed the deal had been terminated.
Daniel Ricciardo is currently out of action for the 2023 season.
At the Belgian Grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo was sometimes bleak, but last weekend at Zandvoort he was back to his usual cheerful self.
“It’s a bit of a relief after last week,” said Daniel Ricciardo.
“You never know what might come your way. Of course, I’ve never been in a situation where I’ve been cut short from a contractual point of view.”
“All of that stuff is certainly a bit mentally taxing.”
“But it also makes the act of driving a little sweeter, because all that can be very distracting. Driving feels much more free and enjoyable.
“Belgium wasn’t a competitive weekend, but I enjoyed driving and in a way I was able to get through it by locking myself in the car.
The options available to Daniel Ricciardo for 2023 are limited, with only Alpine, Haas and Williams having vacancies.
Alfa Romeo has yet to confirm Zhou Guanyu, but it is widely expected that the Chinese driver will renew for a second season.
Pierre Gasly has emerged as a front-runner for the Alpine F1 team if Red Bull can secure a suitable replacement.
Colton Herta is known as the highest person to replace Alpha Tauri, but is currently ineligible for an F1 superlicence. exemption is required. But it was previously said to have been rejected, so we’re not certain on that point.
Therefore, the most realistic option for Daniel Ricciardo is to move to the Haas F1 team instead of Mick Schumacher.
Asked if he would race in another category if an F1 drive doesn’t happen, Daniel Ricciardo said: “It’s too far ahead and it’s hard to predict.”
“I think my short answer is not to give up on Formula 1. If that means I won’t be on the grid next year, I will definitely try to find a way to be there in 2024.”
“To be honest, the only thing I’m really interested in at the moment is racing.”
“My mindset is still ‘I’m a Formula 1 driver’ and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved.”
“But I still feel that there are things I can show, give, and be myself. If that’s what you’re asking me to answer, I’m not going to race in another category next year.”
It’s a disappointing situation for eight-time Grand Prix winner Daniel Ricciardo, who fell short with McLaren despite high expectations.
Aside from his victory at Monza a year ago, it was a trying time that did immeasurable damage to Daniel Ricciardo’s reputation, and in the eyes of many, he was once seen as a future world champion. It turned out to be a driver who barely deserved a place on the grid.
“For sure I’ve been tested over the last few years,” admitted Daniel Ricciardo.
“But I’m proud it didn’t break. I still love it.”
“I still want to be on the grid and I definitely want to do it, maybe not at any cost.”
“That’s what I’m proud of and what I’ve been through.”
“I wish 18 months was better.
Category: F1 / Daniel Ricardo / mclaren