Daniel Ricciardo, during the 2022 season, was informed by McLaren that they won’t be continuing with him for 2023. Despite having a year left in his contract, the Australian didn’t consider opposing the decision.
He even took a massive cut from McLaren in the payout and took home only $10 million from the $15 million salary he was supposed to get in the final year.
Danny Ric, it’s been a pleasure my friend. Thanks for everything. Thanks for the good times. Thanks for the laughs. You’re a legend @danielricciardo pic.twitter.com/zc19pBC6B8
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) November 21, 2022
After that, he wasn’t even keen on getting a new seat, even though teams like Haas and Williams openly showed interest. So why did Ricciardo leave $5 million, a considerable amount even for him and a racing spot in F1 in 2023?
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Daniel Ricciardo claims it wasn’t right
In the upcoming podcast by the In the fast lane trailer, as the episode will be released on Wednesday, Ricciardo discussed his decision not to chase any seat for the 2023 season.
“I know next year to jump into a race seat isn’t the right thing for me,” said Ricciardo. However, Ricciardo still wants to be within the realm of F1. Thus, he was listening to offers for a reserve driver role.
In this situation, Red Bull offered him the third driver spot. The 33-year-old driver claims that this deal allows him to take the break he wants from F1 and stay in touch with the sport.
He also adds that Red Bull was constantly on his mind and had no hesitation in returning when they opened their doors. Reportedly, even Mercedes reached Ricciardo for a reserve-driver role, but they were quickly snubbed when Red Bull entered the picture.
The 2024 return
Ricciardo, in different interviews, has admitted that he would want to return to F1 in 2024. So, everything he’ll work on next year will be around his comeback. Though, which team is still a question.
His association with Red Bull and Sergio Perez’s alleged friction with Max Verstappen could, out of nowhere, grant him the second seat if Red Bull is forced to axe the Mexican from the team even though his contract runs till the 2024 season end.
However, when asked about such a possibility, as per the Race, Horner replied that Red Bull has no reason to disassociate with Perez. Thus, they will be honouring their contract with him.
