Daniel Ricciardo-McLaren F1 Promise Takes Another Blow as Brown Makes Honest Confession Regarding American Substitute

The well-talked-about future of Daniel Ricciardo is up for debate, yet again. The Australian at McLaren has become a shadow of his Red Bull self. Some would argue his decision to not renew with Red Bull and join Renault was a step back, but McLaren was a step in the right direction. However, the move to McLaren as well has become a nightmare for Ricciardo as uncertainty surrounding his future grows.

Ricciardo put all rumors to bed after he posted a statement on his social media regarding his future. However, fuel for the fire has come from the very top of the McLaren camp. McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown discussed the prospect of signing the star of their IndyCar arm, Colton Herta. Herta tested the 2021 Mclaren MCL35 in Portimao and impressed the Mclaren hierarchy.

And after his test, the Mclaren boss discussed the prospect of the American in a Mclaren single-seater. He said, “And yes, [Herta] has been very impressive in IndyCar. He was Lando [Norris’] team-mate not long ago in Europe, so he has European racing background, so let’s give him a go and see what he’s made of.” 

And with the sport’s popularity in America, a local driver will be more attract a lot of sponsorship interest. However, Brown denied that as a core deciding factor.

Read More: Daniel Ricciardo Admits ‘Instant Regret’ After the Bizarre Lando Norris Moment: “Fans I Have Are Now Absolutely Going to Hate Me”

He disclosed, “Nationality is on the list, but we would never select a driver for commercial reasons first. The first gate to get through is do we think this driver is world champion, Grand Prix-winning capable? And if the answer to that is yes, we continue to proceed.” 

Brown’s comments have absolutely put Ricciardo’s statement to shame!

Daniel Ricciardo issues a public statement amidst future uncertainty

The Australian issued a statement on July 13 on various social media platforms offering clarity on his future. The punchy statement made headlines but now Brown’s comments has discredited his statement.

A part of the statement said, “I am committed to McLaren until the end of next year and am not walking away from the sport.” The statement might still ring true, but Brown’s comment definitely has brought back some doubt.

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

The Honey Badger still has 11 races to prove his worth and his promise and show he’s not done yet.