Switching From Renault to McLaren F1 Gave Daniel Ricciardo “Sleepless Nights”

Last week, the third season of Formula 1: Drive to Survive aired on Netflix. Once again, it highlighted a number of big stories about the F1 world. One of them was the departure of Daniel Ricciardo from Renault after just two years with them.

In one of the episodes, Ricciardo explained his decision to leave Renault to join their rivals, McLaren. He said, “‘Can I win if all the cars finish?’ And it still pains me to say that the honest answer to that is no. Deep down I knew I had to leave.”

Of course, Ricciardo confessed that it was not a decision that he took lightly. In fact, it caused him “sleepless nights.” In addition to that, he also took his own age into consideration. Daniel Ricciardo felt that at the age of 31, he cannot afford to risk any more years in a position where a win will be difficult. This explains why he felt that McLaren was better placed in the championship battle, compared to Renault.

Can Daniel Ricciardo succeed at McLaren?

Truthfully speaking, the Australian driver has nothing to lose with his McLaren move. However, with the way that the Woking outfit has been progressing up the order, the move could be a stroke of genius. Dare we say it, McLaren could soon return to its status as a race-winning or even a championship-winning team.

With a fast and experienced driver like Daniel Ricciardo, the outfit will benefit heavily. Furthermore, the Australian will be a great understudy for Lando Norris. Considering that the two get along well, it could be the start of a beautiful partnership.

Whether he can return to the top step of the podium is another story. However, Ricciardo will definitely give it his best shot, and the McLaren team could soon be back on the podium more frequently. Of course, teammate Norris is no slouch either, and has tasted podium success. Without a doubt, the dynamic duo will be able to catapult McLaren up the standings and hopefully into championship contention.

READ MORE: F1 Pundit Believes Daniel Ricciardo Has a Mercedes/Red Bull Exit Clause in McLaren Contract