After being elevated to Red Bull’s team in 2014 and later moving to Renault at the end of 2018, Daniel Ricciardo is looking to reclaim a position with Red Bull via a stint with Alpha Tauri, states Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal.
34-year-old Ricciardo is set to join Red Bull’s feeder team starting from the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix, replacing the recently dismissed Nyck de Vries.
With Max Verstappen’s contract set to last until 2028 and Sergio Perez’s ending in 2024, Ricciardo’s ambition is to vie for the Red Bull seat in 2025, according to Horner.
“He sees his best chance of achieving this ‘golden objective’ through Alpha Tauri,” added Horner.
2023 has been a successful year for Red Bull so far, claiming victories in all 10 races, eight by world champion Verstappen and two by Perez. However, Perez’s performance has taken a downturn, not making the top 10 in the last five qualifying races, while Verstappen has secured pole position in each.
This has led to conjecture that Ricciardo may replace Perez at Red Bull if he performs well alongside Yuki Tsunoda at Alpha Tauri.
Ricciardo, after losing his seat at McLaren at the end of the previous season, chose to rejoin Red Bull as a third driver for 2023.
Speaking on the F1 Nation Hungarian GP preview podcast, Horner noted, “Currently, we only have plans in place until the season’s end. Our drivers for the next year are Max and Checo, but it’s always beneficial to have backup talent.”
Horner acknowledged the team is striving to boost Perez’s performance. He had earlier suggested that Perez might be putting too much pressure on himself to outperform Verstappen.
“Some of his issues have been down to bad luck, while others are self-inflicted,” Horner said. “We’re trying to support him during this phase. He’s still second in the world championship, having won two out of this year’s 10 grands prix.”
Ricciardo’s contract with McLaren ended due to his inability to match up to teammate Lando Norris.
Ricciardo’s F1 career began with Alpha Tauri (formerly known as Toro Rosso) in 2012 and 2013, and his recent strong performance during a test at Silverstone paved the way for his return.
During a Pirelli tyre test, Ricciardo demonstrated impressive speed compared to the times achieved by Verstappen and Perez at the preceding British Grand Prix on the same track.
Horner was particularly impressed by Ricciardo’s swift pace despite being out of the car for seven months. He added that seeing Ricciardo regain his confidence and perform at a high level was a relief for both the driver and the team.
When asked about his readiness to return to a struggling team like Alpha Tauri, Ricciardo seemed more than willing to face the challenge and get back on the F1 grid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Daniel Ricciardo
Who is Daniel Ricciardo aiming to race for in the future?
Daniel Ricciardo is hoping to earn a seat with Red Bull in the future.
What is Daniel Ricciardo’s current team?
Daniel Ricciardo is currently set to race for Alpha Tauri, the junior team of Red Bull.
Who is Ricciardo replacing in Alpha Tauri?
Ricciardo is replacing Nyck de Vries, who was recently dismissed from the team.
How has Red Bull performed in the 2023 season?
Red Bull has dominated the 2023 season so far, winning all 10 races.
Why did Ricciardo leave McLaren?
Ricciardo’s contract with McLaren ended because he was not able to match his teammate Lando Norris’ performance.
How did Ricciardo perform in the recent test drive?
During a recent Pirelli tyre test, Ricciardo impressed the team with his speed, which was comparable to that of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez at the preceding British Grand Prix.
Is there a possibility of Ricciardo replacing Perez in Red Bull?
Speculation has arisen regarding the possibility of Ricciardo replacing Perez at Red Bull if he demonstrates impressive performance alongside Yuki Tsunoda at Alpha Tauri. However, no official decisions have been announced yet.
Is Ricciardo willing to return to a struggling team like Alpha Tauri?
According to Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner, Ricciardo seems more than willing to face the challenges and get back on the F1 grid through Alpha Tauri.
More about Daniel Ricciardo
- Daniel Ricciardo’s Profile
- Red Bull Racing Team
- Alpha Tauri Team
- Formula 1 2023 Season
- Christian Horner’s Profile
- Sergio Perez’s Performance
- Max Verstappen’s Performance
7 comments
danny is an absolute legend! Alpha Tauri is lucky to have him, and Red Bull would be too if they get him back!
im surprised danny boy is even considering alpha tauri. But then, you gotta do what you gotta do!
Wow, Ricciardo back to Red Bull? that woud be a sight! Perez needs to step up his game… seriously
whoa, Ricciardo and Verstappen back in the same team? that would be interesting…lol
Ricciardo coming back to Red Bull, now that’s what I’m talking about!! GO Red Bull!!
Go Ricciardo! show them what you got mate! Looking forward to seeing you back on the F1 grid
Man, i feel for Perez, he’s been in a rough spot lately. hope he bounces back soon.