Daniel Ricciardo rules out attending all Grands Prix next season in the role of reserve driver for Red Bull Racing, assuming that deal comes through.
After Helmut Marko ran his mouth, inevitable questions came to Ricciardo and Christian Horner, who both more or less confirmed the news. The contract appears to be in the final stages and all that seems to be missing is a signature.
Ricciardo cannot yet confirm the deal with 100 percent certainty, but previously stated that it is "close". If the contract is finalised, the Australian is expected to start working as a reserve driver, but will also show up at demonstrations and other marketing-related activities.
Ricciardo not present at every race on behalf of Red Bull
If he takes up the role of reserve driver, the currently McLaren driver does not, by the way, assume he will be present at all 24 races. "Otherwise I may as well be on the grid somewhere. I made it clear that I still need some time off for myself and to get away a little bit. I'll be around to some extent and try to stay involved.," Ricciardo explained to Sky Sports.