American at Heart, Only One Thing Holds Daniel Ricciardo Back From Achieving Dreams Across the Pond

Daniel Ricciardo’s love for the United States and American Motorsports is no secret. Therefore, when he cleared his intention of taking a year off from Formula 1, many wondered if the Australian would try his hand out on the oval circuits. Young IndyCar sensation Pato O’Ward too thought the Honey Badger would love to compete in the series. However, Daniel said ‘no, thank you’.

Daniel Ricciardo mutually parted ways with McLaren one year prematurely from the contract’s stipulation. The two years of underwhelming performances not just disappointed the McLaren bosses, but also Ricciardo himself. Resultantly, the Aussie decided he would stay away from the F1 track for a year, to gather his thoughts and rekindle his love for the sport again.

Daniel Ricciardo rejects Patricio O’Ward’s IndyCar offer

Daniel Ricciardo is poised to rejoin Red Bull, albeit in a reserve driver’s role. Given Sergio Perez’s contract at the Milton-Keynes-based outfit will expire at the end of 2024, Ricciardo might eye a comeback through his former team. Staying away from regular action can, however, bore a man who has competed at the highest level for so long.

That, combined with Daniel’s IndyCar and NASCAR fandom made Pato think he would fit right into the US championship. However, as per Motorsport, Daniel responded, “I do watch a lot of the [IndyCar] races and I enjoy it as a fan, as a spectator. But let’s say, I think mentally, I’m just not there at the moment. I’m still kind of with Formula 1 in my mind.”

Read More: Daniel Ricciardo Once Revealed How Ex-Teammate Sebastian Vettel Helped Him Build Character in F1: “I Really Enjoyed My Year…”

Ricciardo believed if they offered him a seat in IndyCar 10 years ago, he would have said yes. However, now he is not afraid of admitting his fear of racing on oval circuits.

Daniel Ricciardo opens up on the likelihood of joining Red Bull

Daniel Ricciardo recently spoke on the chances of him joining Red Bull for the 2023 season. He also talked about his priorities, which will be major points in deciding whether the deal goes through.

Speaking at the Abu Dhabi GP weekend, Ricciardo said, “I can’t say 100% till things are signed off and whatever, but that’s certainly what’s closest now and yeah, I look forward to that.”

The Honey Badger revealed he will not be available for all 24 races during the calendar and that is something he has made clear to Red Bull. He admitted he needed time off for himself, but to some extent will stay involved.

Watch This Story: Struggling ‘Honey Badger’ Daniel Ricciardo Once Dominated the Streets of Azerbaijan in Glorious 2017

Do you think Daniel will make a comeback as a regular driver in 2024? Or has he lost his magical touch to compete at the highest level?