Daniel Ricciardo is not on the 20-driver list for the 2023 season. The Australian race driver found himself without a starting spot for the upcoming season as McLaren parted ways with him.
Even he didn’t try to seek a new starting spot elsewhere even though there were concrete interests from Haas and Williams. He then explained why he didn’t want to be in F1 for the 2023 season.
The eighth Grand Prix winner has told in several interviews that he needs a break from F1. Therefore, he isn’t keen on racing in F1 next year and would be wrong if he had driven a car in 2023. Though, he has signed in as a third driver for Red Bull.
Also read: Was the Formula One paddock judgemental towards Lewis Hamilton based on his appearance back in 2007?
Daniel Ricciardo plans a recreational Trans-American trip
Ricciardo has confirmed that he will be enjoying his sabbatical with things that will help him ease his mind. And a trip across America on a bike is on the cards that will allow him to spend time with himself.
“Just taking more time for me to do things, prioritise some other things but also I’m trying to plan a ride across America,” Ricciardo said. “That’s something that I know will be exciting and fun, but I’ll also get so much self-reflection time.”
Ricciardo further said that the alone time would also allow him to decide whether coming back to F1 in 2024 would be the right decision. So far, he has said he would like to return to F1 in 2024.
Why does the Red Bull move make sense for him?
Ricciardo with Red Bull was a superstar. But he decided to move away when Max Verstappen was eclipsing him in the team. His move to Renault showed an improvement in the team, but it was slow according to his standards.
Then McLaren, which was a perfect move on paper, failed miserably. He will be with Red Bull four years later, but more of as a substitute to Verstappen and Sergio Perez. In hindsight, his career choices look poor. That’s the cruelty of that word.
However, Ricciardo is alright about having this role with Red Bull. He claims that this move allows him the time he wants to dedicate to himself. At the same time, it keeps him connected to F1 so he can seamlessly return to the sport. Thus, this move makes perfect sense to him.
Also read: Formula One spent $638 Million for fans to witness Max Verstappen claim his 2nd title
