Daniel Ricciardo’s Surprise Humdinger Stumped Christian Horner, George Russell & Pierre Gasly as McLaren’s Vicious Planning Revealed

The moment most Formula 1 fan have been waiting for is here. Netflix released the fifth edition of their super hit series Drive to Survive (DTS). The on-track events of the 2022 season were predictable. However, DTS always delivers some never seen before insights and the show did not disappoint. However, disappointment was the theme of episode 6 of the show. The episode titled ‘Nice guys finish last’ showcased McLaren’s cold-hearted strategic Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri announcements.

The announcements not only caught fans around the world off guard but also some important Formula 1 entities. The announcement we are talking about is Ricciardo’s revelation of the McLaren ousting. As per episode six in the latest season, McLaren instructed Riccairdo to post his announcement on social media at a specific time. The Woking outfit then planned the Piastri announcement exactly 30 minutes after Ricciardo’s announcement.

These carefully planned announcements, all for PR, not only caught the fans off guard but also various drivers and F1 entities. The episode showcases exactly that with George Russell, Pierre Gasly, and Christian Horner. The three entities came across the news during the F1 summer break.

Despite being in various parts of the country during the summer break, the three showcased the same emotion after Ricciardo’s news broke. Fans on Twitter even posted evidence of the three being absolutely harrowed following the announcement. These reactions of the three Russell, Gasly, and Horner came to light thanks to DTS.

Read More: “The Lows Were Real”: Daniel Ricciardo’s ‘Party Animal’ Persona Holds Its Deep Secrets

This is exactly the kind of insight the fans crave that DTS provides. However, this particular incident will leave a sour taste in your mouth and this is exactly the emotion the three drivers expressed. However, in the end, it all turned out for the better for Ricciardo.

Daniel Ricciardo walked away with heavy pockets after the McLaren ousting

The Australian would’ve very much liked to continue racing in the premier class. However, Ricciardo chose the next best alternative putting his mental peace on priority. It doesn’t hurt that he will be walking away with a pocket full of cash as well.

McLaren decided to terminate Ricciardo’s contract a year early. Ricciardo fought them for a short period but decided he was better off taking a break but the Australian did get compensated for the early contract termination. In fact, the Australian made some serious buck after the dust settled.

To be exact, Ricciardo walked away from McLaren $18 million richer. It could’ve been $21 million had he not signed with a team. However, his third driver role at Red Bull also earns him $2 million.

WATCH THIS STORY: Daniel Ricciardo’s Best Moments in F1

The compensation coupled with the Red Bull salary for 2023, let’s say Ricciardo is not complaining. In fact, 2023 will be Ricciardo’s most financially successful year in his entire F1 career. All’s well that ends well!