“I’ve Had a Lot Of Knockdowns…”: Before Parting Ways, Daniel Ricciardo Opens Up On Grim F1 Career

The Formula 1 silly season is an exciting prospect for every fan. However, the same silly season can be devastating for a driver trying to keep their place on the grid. Sadly, Daniel Ricciardo is feeling the melancholic effects of the 2022 silly season.

After terminating his contract, all fans were hoping, somewhat excited as well, to see Ricciardo with a new team. However, as the situation has developed, it’s more likely that the Australian will not be on the grid for the 2023 season. Not just for the fans, though, Ricciardo is also feeling the brunt of this sad reality.

Speaking on Sirius XM made a heartfelt revelation about his situation. He said, “It’s like I forget. It’s just like you need a bit of a short-term memory in this sport. I got here (Mexico) and I was excited and I was happy and ready to go so it’s just…”

“I wish the lows weren’t that low, but it’s a quick recovery. But I’ve had a lot of knockdowns and that’s why I feel like I need to be off the grid next year to rebuild myself. I can keep coming back, but at some point, you need to give yourself the time to properly rebuild. So that’s where I’m kind of at,” he added. 

Read More: “I’m Not Going to Race Formula 1, So…”: After 11 Years in F1, Daniel Ricciardo Finally Reveals What the Future Holds For His Racing Career

The Australian made the heartfelt admission of the toll his time with McLaren has taken on him. Despite admitting he won’t be on the grid next year, Ricciardo might not stay too far from the sport. Especially with news from the Mercedes camp, a desirable outlet for Ricciardo.

Daniel Ricciardo might stick around in the paddock with Mercedes’s reserve role

The Honey Badger, after admitting he wants to make a return in 2024, was open to new roles in F1. One such possible role being talked about is a reserve role in the Mercedes garage.

This avenue has gotten a fresh boost after Riccardo’s competition, Stoffel Vandoorne, signed a deal to join Aston Martin. Stoffel Vandoorne will join Aston Martin in the reserve role for the 2023 season.

This development has opened the window for Ricciardo to become a reserve driver behind Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. A desirable role that will bolster his chances of a return in 2024.

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You know what they say, out of sight, out of mind, and Ricciardo definitely won’t stay out of sight at Mercedes.