Daniel Ricciardo denies the ordeal of having his McLaren F1 contract terminated a year earlier broke him.
Daniel Ricciardo, 33, was ousted from McLaren after joining at the start of last season, replacing fellow Australian Oscar Piastri in 2023.
The story caught the public’s attention despite Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren’s silence 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 moody at times, but last weekend at Zandvoort he was back to his usual good spirits.
“It’s a bit of a relief after last week,” said Daniel Ricciardo.
“You never know what might happen to you. Of course, I’ve never been in a situation where I was interrupted from a contractual point of view.”
“It’s all definitely a bit mentally taxing.”
“But it also makes the act of driving a bit more enjoyable, because it can all be very distracting. Driving is much more free and enjoyable.
“Belgium was not a racing weekend, but I liked driving and somehow I was able to get by by locking myself in the car.
The options available for Daniel Ricciardo for 2023 are limited, with only Alpine, Haas and Williams having vacancies.
Alfa Romeo has yet to confirm Zhou Guanyu, but the Chinese driver is expected to renew for a second season.
Pierre Gasly has become a favorite for the Alpine F1 team if Red Bull can find a suitable replacement.
Colton Herta, who is known as the highest person to replace Alpha Tauri, is currently not eligible for an F1 superlicense. exemption is required. But it was previously said to have been rejected, so we’re not sure on that point.
Therefore, the more realistic option for Daniel Ricciardo is to join the Haas F1 team instead of Mick Schumacher.
When asked if he would race in another category if an F1 drive did not take place, Daniel Ricciardo replied: “It’s too far and it’s hard to predict.”
“I think my short answer is don’t 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 right now is racing.”
“My mindset is always ‘I’m a Formula 1 driver’ and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved.”
“But I still feel there are things I can show and 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 winning 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. deserved a place on the grid.
“Of course I have been tested in recent years,” admitted Daniel Ricciardo.
“But I’m proud it didn’t break. I still love it.”
“I always want to be on the grid and I really 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
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