Harshvardhan Thakur
After months of speculations around the next move of Daniel Ricciardo, the Aussie has confirmed his return to Red bull.
Daniel Ricciardo endured a harsh season this year. The McLaren driver underperformed hugely in comparison to his teammate. The Australian struggled to produce a good enough pace and remain competitive in midfield.
This lack of form arguably cost McLaren P4 in the constructors’ standings. The Orange papaya bid an emotional goodbye to their only race winner in the last decade in Abu Dhabi.
Anyway, the future of the Australian remained under speculation after McLaren sacked the 33-year-old for his Australian counterpart Oscar Piastri a couple of months ago. Repetitive rumors linked Ricciardo with red bull and a possibility of a return to his old team.
A smiling Ricciardo is happy to return “home”
Now, it is officially confirmed that Ricciardo is returning to his old “home”. A delighted Ricciardo said this:
“The smile says it all, I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023.
“I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of.
“For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus.
“I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”
This move will help Ricciardo to stay in the sport while taking a break at the same time. This will also help him to make a return to the grid in 2023 more easily.
Horner also welcomes his old winner back
Red bull team principal Christian Horner was also delighted. The Briton welcomed Daniel Ricciardo back to the red bull family:
Christian Horner said: “It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character. I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home.
“In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the Team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1.
“We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the Team in 2023.”
Daniel Ricciardo scored 37 points and finished P11 on the Drivers’ standings.
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