The entire F1 world witnessed the heartbreaking ousting of Daniel Ricciardo in 2022. But to fan’s delight, the honey badger returned ‘home’. The chance to partially stay in the F1 world came to him when Red Bull offered him the opportunity to be their third driver. Now as Red Bull’s brand ambassador and reserve driver, the honey badger still hasn’t left the Formula 1 circus entirely. In the recent RB19 livery launch, the Australian hinted that his fans may see him behind the wheel of the car.
The hope of him having a full-time seat at the Red Bull team was shut down by Christian Horner, who wanted to go for a younger driver in the future. The livery launch event in New York turned out to be a fulfilling one for many as “Maxiel” entered the event in mini karts and gave us some heart-warming moments. However, the rest of the show was rather underwhelming, which left the fans worried, but to their respite, Ricciardo insinuated driving the launched car this season.
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At the Red Bull livery launch event, Ricciardo was asked if the fans will see him in the newly launched car at any point of time in the coming season. Talking to Sky Sports, he answered, “Maybe a tire test or something, yeah… I might get behind the wheel.”
Read More: In Two Minds, Daniel Ricciardo Now Urges Red Bull to Make an Exception
This assurance is exactly what the fans needed to hold on to the hope of seeing their favorite back in full-time driver capacity in the future. But for now, he stays in the supporting role at Milton Keynes.
Daniel Ricciardo wants to help whenever he can
While taking time away to revalue and re-energize himself, he has found the perfect balance of still staying connected to the sport. To fully justify his role as the third in line, he even intends to be the best cheerleader for the Milton Keynes team and its main drivers, Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.
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At the RB 19 launch he said, “I do get on with Max and Checo. I will just be that, that ray of light in the room and help when I can.”
The Honey Badger is definitely a ray of light not only for the Red Bull drivers but for the entire F1 world. While he modestly states that he will assist when he can, the Red Bull top management has laid out a tiresome calendar for him. More than the racing activities, he will be involved with promotional activities for the drinks brand across the globe.
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Watch This Story: Daniel Ricciardo makes parting promise to the F1 grid
Having a year away from the grid, can the Australian make a return as a main driver of an F1 team?