Daniel Ricciardo Accused of Dropping the Ball After Weeks of Flirting: “If He Had Wanted To, He Could Have…”

Daniel Ricciardo decided to return to his first motoring home, Red Bull, after four underwhelming years away from it. Though back at Milton Keynes, the Honey Badger will not fully be a part of the F1 circus in 2023, as he is the third in line for the Red Bull team. The turn of events, though seemingly unfortunate, is not a helpless situation for Ricciardo. According to another ex-Red Bull driver, who suffered a similar fate, it was Daniel’s choice to take a break.

Alex Albon had to stay on as Red Bull’s reserve driver before being fully back on the grid in 2022. He was forced out after being replaced by Sergio Perez. Not finding a place in the 20 coveted spots, Albon had to patiently sit on the sidelines to wait for the opportunity to knock on his door again. To some onlookers, it may seem like the Australian is suffering through the same fate, but Albon feels otherwise.

As quoted by motorsport.nextgen, Albon said, “The first is that in my case, it was not my choice – his is. He had offers to race elsewhere. If he had wanted to, he could have signed with Haas F1. These two flirted in the media for several weeks but it was Daniel who preferred to take a break,” Albon said.

Elaborating on how they were at different stages of their careers when they were to play the role of the reserve, Albon said, “I was 24 and there was a lot of hunger and desire to come back. Daniel is almost 10 years older than me and a career already full.”

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While Daniel has stated that a call for the 2024 season will be made a few months from now, the Thai driver mentions what it is that Ricciardo may be looking for and emphasizes that is the major difference between them.

Albon hints at the crucial difference between him and Daniel Ricciardo

Despite having gone through a somewhat similar journey, Ricciardo and Albon have more differences than similarities. Beginning with one having a secure future in F1 while the other doesn’t. But Albon highlights a key difference between the two.

The Williams driver, acknowledging the successful driver Ricciardo has been, said, “I imagine Daniel probably wouldn’t want to join a team unless it was a top team. It would be like starting his driving career over again, which on my side I would be more than happy to do. I think that’s really the main difference, our state of mind.”

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While still away from the grid, will Daniel be willing to make a comeback for the next season in 2024?