Understanding Ricciardo's decision: 'It's very heavy'

Alexander Albon can well understand Daniel Ricciardo's decision to take a year's rest after leaving McLaren and joining Red Bull Racing as a reserve driver. Speaking to Planetf1.com Albon explained the toll F1 can have and how a break can help.

At a young age, the Thai driver experienced how tough the world of F1 He was given the chance to prove himself at Red Bull half way through the 2019 season. It proved too much of a challenge for him, so he was told after the following season that he would be replaced by Sergio Perez.

It resulted in Albon spending a year working behind the scenes at Red Bull, which meant he could not be found on the grid. The driver liked the time, as it gave him the opportunity to develop himself further. He therefore finds the situation of Ricciardo, who hopes to return in 2024, not comparable.

"It's very heavy," stated Albon. "I think it took me a couple of weeks to kind of get through the emotional impact of missing out on a seat, but because I was young, I think I kind of felt like it was never over, and I knew I could have a chance [of coming] back."

"I think it’s possibly what also Mick [Schumacher] is feeling right now," Albon further commented. The driver spent the last two seasons with Haas F1, but the Americans did not continue with him. This week, he signed a contract with Mercedes, where he will work as a reserve driver.