Ricciardo rules out return to F1 reserve driver role
Daniel Ricciardo has expressed disinterest in prolonging his Formula 1 career by stepping back into a reserve driver role.
Daniel Ricciardo has expressed disinterest in prolonging his Formula 1 career by stepping back into a reserve driver role.
After being dropped by McLaren in 2022, Red Bull stepped in to appoint the 35-year-old Australian as a reserve driver for its two F1 teams.
He eventually returned to racing last year with Red Bull’s junior team, hoping to work his way back into the main Red Bull Racing squad.
However, it seems almost certain that Singapore was Ricciardo’s final race, with Red Bull bosses expected to officially announce his departure soon.
“No,” Ricciardo responded when asked if he would consider taking up another reserve driver position.
“Obviously, last year it made a lot of sense to keep one foot in the door and obviously the big picture was to try and get back at Red Bull. But I think if I was to do that again, there’s not really much point.
“I’m not going to restart my career.”
Ricciardo, an eight-time grand prix winner, was visibly emotional following the demanding night race in Singapore, admitting that his age may have played a part in his struggle to maintain consistent competitiveness.
“It’s obviously been evident that it’s been harder for me to show it every weekend. And maybe that is a little bit of an age thing,” he said.
“I think it definitely came easier for me when I was 25 as opposed to 35, but also maybe the competition is just increasing. So maybe it’s just that the level’s increased and it’s probably a tall task for me to fight at that level week in, week out.”
Ricciardo is resolved to approach the end of his Formula 1 career with a positive outlook, determined to avoid “looking back and feeling sad.”
“I can’t be disappointed with what I achieved. I’m happy that, once upon a time, I could do it and that was a lot of fun,” he reflected.
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