Daniel Ricciardo was the big-money signing for the McLaren F1 team in 2021. But the Australian driver has struggled to match his teammate Lando Norris’s speed in the 2021 season. He has struggled to put in a complete weekend and has lagged behind his young teammate.

But McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl believes Ricciardo is working hard to understand the car better and there is no reason to replace him just yet.

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We have a long-term commitment with Daniel: Andreas Seidl

As reported by Ampnine.com, Seidl is sure that the team will not replace the Aussie driver despite his struggles this season. He also stated that the team is looking forward to continuing with Daniel next season as well.

“No, not at all. First of all, we have a long-term commitment with Daniel,” said Seidl on reports of Mclaren sacking the Aussie.

“The speed Daniel is having and the experience here with us, we are working hard in order to, let’s say, make the next steps on his integration process.

“We’re looking forward to seeing these next steps together and then go into the next year as well.” said the McLaren team principal.

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Firstly, good to be back out there: Daniel Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo returned to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit after the summer break. He finished the FP1 AND FP2 session in P12 and P15, respectively. The McLaren driver gave an assessment of his performance in the practice sessions.

“We did a few tests today and I think that’s where tonight we will try to figure out what direction. As you say, sometimes it’s a split here. You want downforce for the middle sector, but you tend to lose out on the straights.”

“So it’s just whatever you’re kind of happier with and find that compromise and balance. So time will tell what we end up going for and then otherwise tires, I think Mercedes might’ve a bit better on the mediums.” concluded Ricciardo.

Ricciardo needs a good performance this weekend to close the gap to his teammate. He also needs help McLaren in the constructors’ battle with Ferrari for P3.

Can Daniel perform well on Saturday at Spa? Let us know.