Daniel Ricardo finally confirmed that it “will not be on the network next year”.
The eight-time grand prix winner rejected an offer from Haas to negotiate a race seat in 2023 after losing his place at McLaren.
“I won’t be on the grid next year, but I’ll be here because I have ambitious goals for 2024,” the 33-year-old Australian said in Mexico.
They talked about what would happen Mercedes‘ backup pilot next year to replace Alpha Tauri Nick de Vries.
But there are also rumors that he is in talks with him Red Bull about a similar role for 2023.
“Discussions are ongoing, but nothing has been signed yet,” Ricardo said. “Nothing is guaranteed for 2024, but I will do my best to come back.”
Head of Mercedes Toto Wolff confirms talks are taking place – and he also believes the former Renault and Red Bull driver is in talks with “other teams”.
“Also with Red Bull Racing,” said the Austrian. “For us, we think he’s a great character. But we are not yet ready to say who will be our third pilot next season.
“His personality is an absolute force and Daniel has been with us for a long time – he knows these cars inside out,” added Wolfe. “It can definitely be an advantage.
“But I don’t want to start any rumors here because the truth is we haven’t decided yet.”
Ricciardo was named driver of the day in Mexico after a string of overtaking en route to seventh place – but Yuki Tsunoda was furious with the Australian for the collision.
“It annoys me so much that such an experienced driver tried to overtake in a corner where overtaking is basically impossible,” said the Japanese.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/formula-1/red-bull/news/ricciardo-in-talks-with-mercedes-and-red-bull-wolff_498295.html
