Daniel Ricciardo’s “Reputational Damage” A Burden to Bear With Rocky Future Ahead

F1 Grand Prix winner and Red Bull veteran, David Coulthard, had an interview with Balls.ie, wherein the Briton shared his two cents on the season – that was, the shifts that took place, and the business that runs the whole show. The Brit touched on many subjects. One particularly included the topic of fan favorite, Daniel Ricciardo’s return to Red Bull. Reflecting on the way Ricciardo’s driving career has shaped up over the past few years, David commented on the Honey Badger’s career decisions.

Even though Coulthard holds utmost respect for the Australian for the wonderful man that he is, he believes that F1 isn’t a ‘personality competition.’ And therefore, being good isn’t the only factor that can carry Ricciardo’s career going forward.

David explained, “McLaren gave him one win, but in actual fact there was a bit of reputational damage during that time alongside Lando Norris.“

“It has to be a platform and a springboard to try and come back in. Now, given the difficulties over the season with McLaren, it’s going to be very difficult for him to find a route back into Formula 1, with the Mercedes, the Ferrari…”

“Red Bull would seem the obvious place. But obviously, Max is around for the long term, Checo is doing a very solid job, so it could be very difficult for Daniel,” he concluded

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On the other hand, when the Mexican driver, Sergio Perez, was asked if he felt threatened by Daniel’s return to Red Bull, he seemed quite nonchalant about the whole thing.

Sergio Perez is convinced that Daniel Ricciardo’s return doesn’t change anything

As the Australian has found his way back to his ‘home’ team, many speculate that Ricciardo’s presence would add pressure for Sergio Perez to hold his place in the team. With his seat in danger, Sergio might feel threatened for most of the season of 2023. Sergio, however, was quick to put a stop to these speculations.

In an interview with Sky, Perez said, “I’m very relaxed.”

“He is a great guy. He is one of he guys that I get on with the most in the paddock so it is just great to have Daniel in the team and from my side it doesn’t change anything,” he concluded.

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Red Bull has emerged as the dominant team in the season 2022. Now, with drivers like Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez, and Daniel Ricciardo on their team, Red Bull holds the possibility to emerge dominant yet again. Will they, though?