Lewis Hamilton Opens Mercedes’ Doors to Daniel Ricciardo: “Earned the Right to Be Driving Among Us”

Sep 8, 2022 | 8:57 PM EDT

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Daniel Ricciardo’s unfortunate situation with McLaren has been a big talking point this season. The Australian fan favorite terminated his contract mutually with McLaren and is currently out of a job for next year. However, he has the confidence of one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, Lewis Hamilton.

The Mercedes driver had some very kind words to say about Daniel, which is certain to fuel the rumor mill even more.

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Rumors of Daniel Ricciardo setting camp at Mercedes have picked up pace recently. Hamilton might be hungrier than ever to win a record 8th title, but the British constructors could be looking at the future by pursuing Danny Ric.

However, Lewis Hamilton himself admitted he would not think twice about hiring Daniel Ricciardo if he had the chance to sign him. The Mercedes driver said,“He’s earned the right to be driving among us. If I was manager of his he’d be driving!”

Daniel Ricciardo has won 8 Grand Prix in his Formula 1 career. Co-incidentally, his last Grand Prix win came at Monza – this weekend’s venue. The Australian’s McLaren stint has not gone as well as he would have hoped for and is surely looking for new, and greener pastures.

There is no denying Daniel Ricciardo’s talent. He is one of the most exciting drivers on the grid and any team will be lucky to have him. Surely, it isn’t the end of the road for the Honey Badger.

Mercedes planning for life without Lewis Hamilton as they look to sign Daniel Ricciardo

Mercedes has emerged as a shock contender to sign former Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo. The British constructors hope to sign Daniel as their reserve driver with Hamilton and George Russell as the primary drivers for next year.

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The Australian said, “I’m pretty open-minded with any scenario. I think there’s pros and cons with all of it. That’s why I kind of want to hear everything. Even if it’s a reserve, I don’t want to be too proud to say I’m too good for that.”

He added, “I just want to hear everything and see what makes sense.” The move will be a step in the right direction for both parties, with Ricciardo staying in F1 and Mercedes not having to look anywhere else to replace Lewis.

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Whether Lewis Hamilton carries on long-term remains to be seen. However, signing Daniel Ricciardo seems to be the right move for Mercedes, given his excellent driving capabilities. Do you think Daniel can replace Lewis in the long run?