Daniel Ricciardo entered the season with high hopes that he could improve his performances and kick off the new era in style. Unfortunately, things haven’t panned out this way. He has scored only 11 points in the first 7 races while his teammate is outperforming him time and again.

As a result, rumors suggest that his future is on thin ice. Earlier, McLaren’s CEO even hinted at the possibility of the Australian’s exit after this season. So, the pressure is on his shoulders as Formula 1 moves to Azerbaijan. However, the 32-year-old is optimistic that his fortunes will turn sooner than later.

Daniel Ricciardo opens up on his positive mindset

A points finish in one race so far is not what Ricciardo and McLaren had in mind ahead of the season. The Aussie has admitted that pressure exists but feels that he is ruthless on the track as ever as he struggles to find his rhythm this season.

He said, “The reality is I’ve not forgotten how to drive in six months, I haven’t lost my competitive edge, it’s just kind of a moment in time that I knew I could come out of.”

“You are always going to get people saying this and that. It is what it is. It’s up to me in the car to prove them wrong.”

“But no one’s going to get into me more than myself as well, so someone telling me that I need to pull my finger out is not going to change me because if they are telling me to pull my finger out then I’m telling myself much more.”

READ MORE: Are Daniel Ricciardo’s 2022 McLaren Struggles the Writing on the Wall for His F1 Career?

However, time is not his friend at the moment. Questions are raised on whether the Honey Badger has struggled to adapt to the car. With a double header coming up, he will look to restore his confidence with a solid performance.

Can Ricciardo bounce back?

Well, that is the million-dollar question. But the next few races could prove to be a make or break for Ricciardo. The Azerbaijan track comprises long, high-speed straights and sharp corners where the driver’s skill set is crucial. And of course, the Australian has won a race in Baku back in 2017.

So, he will hope for a solid race to build his confidence and slowly regather his form. However, the noise surrounding his future could prove to be a distraction. Many, including popular F1 commentator Martin Brundle, believe the Australian will not driver for McLaren in 2023.

He stated, “The rumours and also the voices within the team are getting louder and louder. He’s just too far behind his team-mate. He has to start turning it around now because if it stays the way it is now, I don’t see him driving at McLaren next year.”

WATCH THIS STORY: F1 Drivers Fighting on Track

Nonetheless, Ricciardo believes he can turn around his form and answer his critics. Do you think the Australian will keep his seat next year? Leave your thoughts in the comments.