Ricciardo on leaving McLaren: "I have never been more motivated"

On Wednesday afternoon, McLaren and Daniel Ricciardo confirmed they will part ways at the end of the 2022 Formula 1 season. The Australian originally had a deal that would see him team up with Lando Norris until 2023, but the team have agreed to end this deal early.

Things haven't worked out well for Ricciardo and McLaren during their time together. Ricciardo has been beaten by Norris convincingly more often than not, though Ricciardo did achieve a race victory in Italy last season. In his first message after the announcement, Ricciardo explained how he has enjoyed his time at McLaren.

“It’s been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons but following several months of discussions with Zak & Andreas we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season," Ricciardo said.

After a summer break period, racing resumes this weekend in the Belgium Grand Prix. The teams and drivers enter one of the busiest periods in the history of Formula 1 with nine races in 13 weeks. Ricciardo is looking forward to getting back to work.

"I’ve enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and back in Woking and will be giving my all on and off track as we enjoy the remainder of the season together. I’ve never been more motivated to compete and be a part of a sport that I love so much and look forward to what comes next," Ricciardo concluded.