Daniel Ricciardo would take a break from F1 if 'stars do not align' on new deal for 2023

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Daniel Ricciardo says he is willing to walk away from F1 for a while if the right opportunities do not present themselves for the 2023 season. Although his future is up in the air, Ricciardo is proud of his time with McLaren.

It has been less than 24 hours since Daniel Ricciardo announced his split from McLaren, a decision that was not a surprise based on the past few weeks of "silly season" 2022. Ricciardo was notified that Formula 2's Oscar Piastri was taking his seat, however that has not been finalized as Alpine feels they have the rights to Piastri's contract for 2023.

When asked if he would consider time away from F1 if the right offer does not come along, Ricciardo told reporters that F1 is the only racing he is interested in at this point in his career. Not having Daniel Ricciardo in Formula 1 would be a big change for the sport, as he has been a huge part of the growth and expansion of Formula 1 in the United States.

Formula 1 legend Sebastian Vettel has been outspoken about Ricciardo's future, and feels that he is far from done in the sport. Vettel and Ricciardo were colleagues at Red Bull, and Vettel has a huge amount of respect for the Australian.

2022 has been a lopsided affair for Ricciardo against his teammate Lando Norris. Scoring a mere 19 points versus Lando's 76, Ricciardo has been completely outmatched and outraced. Lando Norris stated he has enjoyed his time as teammates with Ricciardo but he is focused on his own performance and not anyone else's. 

It may be an awkward 9 races to end the season, but Daniel Ricciardo can sleep well at night knowing McLaren is paying him roughly $21 million next year to not race for the team. 


 

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