Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo has outlined his goals for 2023, as he takes a break from racing in Formula 1 for the first time since he signed with Toro Rosso in 2012.
Having been dropped from McLaren after CEO Zak Brown looked for a change amid disappointing results for the team, Ricciardo failed to find a race seat, rejoining Red Bull as their reserve driver.
“This is the first year in as long as I can remember that my goals aren’t going to be 100% about racing and competing,” Ricciardo admitted in a LinkedIn post.
“I’m back in an environment and ultimately a family that I have a lot of good memories with and it feels really good to be back there,” he added.
READ: Helmut Marko hands Daniel Ricciardo fatal blow amid Max Verstappen illness
In his professional career, Ricciardo accepts that his role at Red Bull is about supporting the wider team, jumping into the simulator, learning the car and helping to shape development.
As he looks to secure a spot back on the grid, Ricciardo is focused on developing his own abilities, confidence and finding enjoyment behind the wheel again after “a tough couple of years.”
Finding his love for the sport again is at the heart of his vision, as shown in his efforts to reset and refresh himself through his personal goals for the year.
Despite having travelled the world for the past 15 years, Ricciardo is clear that he’s not had the chance to slow down, enjoy his trips and spend time with the people who matter most in his life.
READ: ‘Finished already’: Lando Norris makes Mercedes engine revelation
“They’ve always supported me and I haven’t had the time to invest back in them, and that’s something I’m really looking forward to,” he continued.
Outside of a race seat, Ricciardo is also keen to, as he puts it, improve his skills on two wheels, having always harboured a passion for motorbikes.
“I promise you this is the most fun you can have on two wheels. Riding with friends, jumping things and being out in nature. I’m getting excited just thinking about it,” Ricciardo added.