Daniel Ricciardo, who lost his McLaren seat when his career came to a slump this year, looks set to join Red Bull or Mercedes next season as reserve driver if he doesn’t race for a year. The Australian hinted at his brighter future after storming to seventh with a revived performance at Sunday’s Mexican Grand Prix, but declined to confirm his plans.
“I will not be on the grid next year, but I will be here (in F1) because I have ambitious plans for 2024,” he said. “Talks are underway, but nothing has been signed. Nothing is guaranteed for 2024, but I will do everything I can to return.”
Ricciardo, 33, revived his outlook and his smile on Sunday as he rose from the almost anonymous mediocrity of finishing between races to finish behind the top six – comprising both Red Bulls, both Mercedes and the two Ferraris.
He made light of a harsh 10-second penalty for colliding with Yuki Tsunoda’s Alpha Tauri to romp back with several exciting passing moves to finish ahead of McLaren teammate Lando Norris.
His resurgence delighted most paddock observers who thought he would join Mercedes as a replacement for reserve driver Nyck de Vries who will join Alpha Tauri next season.
Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff confirmed talks had taken place between them, but added that he believed Ricciardo was in talks with other teams.
“Yes, also at Red Bull Racing,” said Wolff. For us, we think he’s a great character, but we’re not ready to say who our third driver will be next season.
“His personality is an absolute strength and Daniel has been with us for a long time. He knows these cars inside out.
“That can certainly be an advantage, but I don’t want to start any rumors here, because the truth is we haven’t decided anything yet.”
Ricciardo was named ‘Driver of the Day’ for his efforts at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and enjoyed the attention he deserved after the race.
“I can confidently say that I will not be behind a wheel on the grid,” he told Sky Sports F1 with a signature beaming grin.
As an eight-time winner, he had proven to be a man who had something to prove once again. “I still want to be in the sport and I want to work with a team with the ambition to be back in 2024.
“Honestly, wherever my head is. I feel like getting a little time away from a race seat will do me some good and then try to rebuild. Let’s just say I’m not done yet, but it will look a little different look.
promoted
“No doubt the last two years have been pretty tough, especially if you put a lot into it and if it doesn’t come back it can bring you down.
“I also think the value of even a summer vacation, getting away, gives you a different perspective. It’s pretty brutal. You don’t really get a chance to rebuild. Everyone is different, but I really believe that’s a blessing in disguise . By doing less, I achieve more.”
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