F1 News: Daniel Ricciardo Confirmed To Be Leaving McLaren This Year
F1 team McLaren has confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo will not be racing for the British team in 2023. The contract was terminated by mutual consent after rumours of his leaving spread across the F1 community.
Only last year did Ricciardo move from Renault to McLaren with a contract that would have taken him to the end of 2023, but with the Australian driver’s performance not quite being where the team or Ricciardo expected, it is no surprise that he’s leaving now.
“It’s been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons but following several months of discussions with [McLaren Racing CEO ] Zak [Brown] and [team principal] Andreas [Seidl, we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season,” Ricciardo told the press.
“I’ll be announcing my own future plans in due course but regardless of what this next chapter brings, I have no regrets and am proud of the effort and work I gave McLaren, especially the win in Monza, last season.
“I’ve enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and back in Woking and will be giving my all on and off track as we enjoy the remainder of the season together. I’ve never been more motivated to compete and be a part of a sport that I love so much and look forward to what comes next.”
It was looking as though Alpine reserve driver Oscar Piastri would be replacing Ricciardo, but it’s currently unknown as to who will be replacing him.
Andreas Seidl commented on Ricciardo constantly giving his best for the team, despite his crumbling relationship with the car.
“I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far,” Seidl said.
“Despite the shared challenges, he has always turned up with a fighting spirit and positivity and helped the entire team to always keep pushing forward.
“We will never forget that memorable race win in Monza which was a great boost for the whole team.
“We still have an important battle in the Constructors’ Championship ahead of us for the remainder of the season and we look forward to battle this out with Daniel and Lando.”
Zak Brown, team owner, thanked Ricciardo:
“Daniel has been a great addition to McLaren, and it’s been a pleasure working with him.
“I’d like to thank him for all of his efforts over the last two seasons both trackside and back at base.
“It’s no secret that we hoped we could achieve more together but seeing him stand on the top step of the podium as a McLaren driver was a highlight. We wish him well for the future and let’s go enjoy the rest of the season together.”
Despite this move away from McLaren, Ricciardo remains a huge fan of the McLaren road cars, owning both a 675LT and 720S alongside a number of other exquisite vehicles. Maybe, now he’s been confirmed as a Red Bull reserve driver, he’ll add another Ford car to his collection.
