Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed he will see out the season with Red Bull following his heat of the moment suggestion that Pierre Gasly could take over after the Mexican GP.
The smile was back on the Aussie’s face after pipping teammate Max Verstappen to pole in qualifying at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez but in the race, the disappointment would return with an eighth retirement of the season due to hydraulic problems.
Afterwards, the 29-year-old described his car as “cursed” adding he was “done” and would “let Gasly drive it”, but after a few days of reflection, Ricciardo popped up on Instagram with a message for his fans.
“I want to address a few things from Mexico,” the ‘Honey Badger’ began. “First one first I will be doing the last two races as it is what I am about and I am not about that other life.
“It has been obviously massive highs and lows this year, more lows unfortunately and it has been frustrating I won’t lie.
“But I look to myself and all the guys that work their butts off to give it two more cracks before we see each other off so I will be there.
“I just needed a few days off but it feels good.”
With six of his eight retirements mechanically based, some have been wondering if doubts are creeping in about his decision to move to Renault next season, something Red Bull boss Christian Horner said: “Only Daniel can answer”.
Mexico certainly presented Ricciardo’s best chance for a final podium with Red Bull but the unpredictable nature of Interlagos could well throw a surprise before the slightly less ideal layout at Yas Marina.