Yet another one of Formula 1’s worst-kept secrets has just become official. After four seasons away from the world championship-winning outfit that made him a household name, a painfully inconsistent stint that yielded extremely limited results, Daniel Ricciardo is returning to Red Bull Racing.
Unsatisfied with the prospect of becoming Red Bull Racing’s #2 driver behind Max Verstappen, Ricciardo initially left for Renault F1 in 2018, before eventually signing with McLaren Racing two years later with whom he managed to win at Monza.
Now, the 33-year-old Aussie motorsport talent is being re-welcomed into the fold as Red Bull Racing’s reserve driver for 2023. In other words, he’s coming back as a #3 driver behind the reigning two-time grid king and Mexico’s Minister of Defence Sergio Perez (the universe can be a cruel mistress sometimes, can’t it?).
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“The smile says it all. I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their third driver in 2023,” said Daniel Ricciardo.
“I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from [Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner], [Red Bull Head of Development Dr Helmut Marko], and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of.”
“For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus. I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”
Daniel Ricciardo first entered the Red Bull Racing family through its junior squad Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2012. Within the span of two seasons, he’d be promoted to run with the big boys, partnering with the now-retired four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel before Verstappen was introduced to the picture.
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Across his seven-year tenure as a Red Bull/Toro Rosso driver, The Honey Badger racked up seven race wins, 29 podiums, 986 points, as well as three pole positions. And Horner clearly hasn’t forgotten about the bloke’s piloting capabilities.
“It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character; I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home,” said Christian Horner.
Horner added: “In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1.”
“We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the team in 2023.”
Red Bull Racing recently capped off the 2022 season by claiming both the driver and constructor’s titles.
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