Daniel Ricciardo breaks down the difference between last year’s career uncertainty to the thrill of securing a Red Bull contract

Alpha Tauri have announced Daniel Ricciardo as their driver for the 2024 season.

Daniel Ricciardo breaks down the difference between last year’s career uncertainty to the thrill of securing a Red Bull contract

Daniel Ricciardo (Credits: IMAGO)

Daniel Ricciardo‘s last 12 months have been a saga of unexpected twists. An abrupt departure from McLaren led him back to Red Bull in a reserve role. The premature exit of Nyck de Vries accelerated Ricciardo’s return. Still, a crash at Zandvoort in FP3 cut short his stint at AlphaTauri, leaving him sidelined with broken wrists and Liam Lawson taking the wheel.

However, recently, AlphaTauri announced the lineup for the upcoming season—Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda, a confirmation that eluded him the previous year. This time, a contract solidifies his place, bringing a sense of stability and assurance that was absent during the tumultuous period of contemplation.

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Speaking to Speedcafe about the contract extension and his future locked in for at least another year in the sport, Ricciardo exclaimed, “Very excited to be with a contract on the grid for next year,” reflecting on a year of profound introspection. Last year, Ricciardo was with McLaren and had the worst stint in his career. 

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A mere twelve months ago, the Aussie found himself at a crossroads. Uncertain about his racing future, he questioned, “When is that time going to come where ‘maybe is it time for a change?'” It was a pivotal moment, an existential pause for someone who had poured their entire life into the racing world. 

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Daniel Ricciardo claims that his time away from sport has heightened his appetite for wins

Yet, life had a different lap in store. Ricciardo embarked on a temporary break, returning to Red Bull as a third driver. This sabbatical wasn’t just a pit stop; it was a chance for the racer to recalibrate his desires and aspirations, a self-discovery lap in the larger race of life. Ricciardo shared about his time away from the sport and how it helped rekindle his love for the sport. 

Daniel Ricciardo with Red Bull as a reserve driver
Daniel Ricciardo with Red Bull as a reserve driver (Credits: ESPN India)

The break allowed Ricciardo to delve into his desires and motivations. “The first part of this year, I learned a lot about myself. It really reignited me and gave me that second wind that I was hoping for,” he confessed. He now claims he is “a very, very hungry young man again.” 

With the Qatar Grand Prix on the horizon, Ricciardo eyes a triumphant return, aiming for a points finish. The resilience displayed in the face of setbacks exemplifies his hunger for success. As the Australian driver gears up for the next chapter, his journey is a testament to the ebbs and flows of a career in Formula 1. He has to be back in his mojo as fast as possible since his young substitute driver showcased prowess, outclassing even the experienced Tsunoda.

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