Daniel Ricciardo has moved to end speculation over his Formula 1 future, stating he is “committed to McLaren” for 2023.
Bar his victory last year at Monza, the Australian has largely struggled to get up to speed with the Woking-based team since joining at the start of 2021.
CEO Zak Brown then admitted Ricciardo had not “met expectations” back in May, triggering the rumours over if he will stay beyond this year.
“Part of me loves it. That’s the truth because one thing I love about this sport is you’re always going to be under the spotlight and there’s always going to be that attention, that pressure,” he said via Formula1.com back in Baku.
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“When you can execute under those circumstances, it’s one of the most powerful and rewarding feelings. So I know that there is obviously chatter and let’s say certainly some noise at the moment.
“But for me, it’s like a good reason to… push back and just to remind people, but first and foremost to remind myself, that I can still do it.
“I have no doubts, so yes, it’s fun and I have no issue with people talking because I haven’t really done anything spectacular this year, so I know that it comes with the territory.
“But deep down, I still know what I’m capable of and I look forward to showing this – hopefully, sooner rather than later.”
Since then, the American has maintained the intention is still for the 33-year-old to stay next season but that hasn’t stopped the speculation.
Even in Austria, Sky Sports Ted Kravitz revealed another Aussie, Oscar Piastri, is yet to sign for Williams in 2023 because his manager, none other than Mark Webber, is eyeing Ricciardo’s seat as a potential alternative.
The BBC also reported that McLaren had identified Sebastian Vettel and Alex Albon as options if the ‘Honey Badger’ did leave.
This week’s test for IndyCar driver Colton Herta and the signing of IndyCar champion Alex Palou are also seen as moves with an eye on 2024.
But in a post on social media on Wednesday, Ricciardo made clear his position regarding next year…
“There have been a lot of rumours around my future in Formula 1, but I want you to hear it from me,” he wrote.
“I am committed to McLaren until the end of next year and am not walking away from the sport. Appreciate it hasn’t always been easy, but who wants easy!
“I’m working my ass off with the team to make improvements and get the car right and back to the front where it belongs. I still want this more than ever. See you in Le Castellet.”