In a recent interview with Sky F1, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown confirmed that all financial arrangements with former driver Daniel Ricciardo have come to an end.
As Ricciardo returns to the grid for the 2023 Hungarian Grand Prix with Red Bull’s sister team AlphaTauri, McLaren parts ways with the Australian driver on good terms, expressing admiration for his talent and wishing him success in securing a permanent grid seat beyond 2023.*
Daniel Ricciardo’s stint with McLaren ended prematurely at the conclusion of the 2022 season, one year before his contract was set to expire.
Despite delivering McLaren their most recent Formula 1 victory at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix, Ricciardo’s overall performance was underwhelming, often outshone by his teammate Lando Norris.
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However, the relationship between McLaren and Ricciardo remains amicable, evident in Zak Brown’s statement during the interview.
“All of our financial arrangements have come to an end,” Brown confirmed, asserting that Ricciardo is now a free agent.
The McLaren boss expressed happiness at seeing Ricciardo back on the grid and extended well-wishes for his future endeavours.
Brown emphasised that the entire McLaren team holds Ricciardo in high regard and hopes he can secure a permanent seat on the grid beyond the 2023 season.
Despite the partnership not meeting expectations, the memories of their victory together still hold a special place for the team.
“I don’t think there’s anyone who’s not a Daniel Ricciardo fan, starting with everyone at McLaren. We really enjoyed working with him,” said Brown.
As Ricciardo makes his return to the grid, he faces the challenge of competing alongside Yuki Tsunoda at AlphaTauri.
The young Honda-backed racer has been making a strong impression in his third season with the team, adding further excitement to Ricciardo’s journey with his new outfit.
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While his McLaren stint may not have lived up to expectations, there is no doubt that Daniel Ricciardo possesses immense talent and potential.
Brown expressed hope that Ricciardo will excel at AlphaTauri and showcase his capabilities once again.
“Clearly he’s got the talent, and hopefully he’ll be able to show it again,” said Brown, expressing optimism for Ricciardo’s future performance.