Ricciardo turns down McLaren offer: 'I believe he has a real desire'

McLaren announced this week that Daniel Ricciardo's contract, which runs until the end of 2023, will be terminated after this season. Although the British F1 stable was keen to get rid of him, the team still tried to keep him for McLaren, according to Zak Brown.

The CEO of the formation tells Speedcafe.com McLaren during the negotiations talked about moving him to another motorsport class. It gave him the opportunity to work in Formula E or IndyCar.

"We spoke about that," Brown admits. "He’s an exceptional racing driver and any team that he drives for is so privileged to have Daniel drive for you. We do have a variety of racing activities. That being said, he’s very focused on Formula 1. And so of course, the door will always be open here at McLaren but I believe he has a real desire to continue in Formula 1."

Ricciardo hopes for new chance in F1

Ricciardo told the media on Thursday that he is still hoping for another chance in Formula 1. The Australian is enjoying his time in the motorsport class and thinks he can still be of value. He points at the failed cooperation with McLaren.

Alpine and Haas seem to have Ricciardo in their sights. Where the American formation still has not renewed the cooperation with Mick Schumacher, Alpine still has to find a replacement for Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard will be leaving for Aston Martin after the season.