Ricciardo: “Remind people I’m still here”

No No. 3 on the grid Formula 1 2023. Daniel Ricciardo does not stray too far from the Formula 1 ecosystem by reclaiming the place of third driver within the reigning world champion team, and the main candidate for its succession, Red Bull. The Australian has not taken his foot off the gas since 2011 and his debut at Toro Rosso : " This is the first year in as long as I can remember that my goals haven't been 100% dedicated to running and competing., begins Ricciardo. While that's still a part of it, it's to a different extent this year and I now have time to have more distinct goals. »

But this almost white season will remain closely linked to motor racing, back in an environment that he knows by heart, which he describes as “ in family ": " Being in the simulator, knowing the car, and helping shape that environment are the things I'm focused on. This will also help develop my abilities, my confidence and my pleasure behind the wheel. » 

A pleasure that Ricciardo admits to having lost, after two dark years with the Papayas of McLaren. A victory, the latest for the Woking garage, certainly. But above all a taste of unfinished business, and the Australian with the big smile lost it as the races progressed. Dominated by his teammate, and feeling the wind turning, Ricciardo will be collateral damage of a storm Piastres/Alpine/McLaren. “ The last two years have been difficult professionally speaking, he admits,t there is this competitive side of my personality that wants to remind people that I am still here, still a professional and that I continue to be part of a success. » And the season begins flawlessly for the team with two races, and as many doubles.

Ricciardo's personal goals

But the Australian also takes the opportunity to express his personal desires in a year when he will have more time to devote to them, which he considers to be a “ Luxury »… especially if he were to re-enter the Formula 1 circus as a starter next season: “ I don't want to let the year slip through my fingers because, if I'm behind the wheel next year, I hope I'll have done as much with my free time as I can. »

But speed is never far away, and Ricciardo would like to devote his year to another passion, motorcycling: “ People may think I'm kidding but I really want to improve on my 110! I have always loved motorcycles but never really had the opportunity to ride them due to lack of time. But I love learning new things and my desire to excel in everything I do will also flow into this hobby. I promise it's the most fun you can experience on two wheels. Riding with friends, jumping on things, and being out in nature. I can't wait just thinking about it. »

The Australian's schedule will therefore be very busy, while looking out of the corner of his eye at the paddock in the hope of returning one day.

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