Ricciardo still aiming to return 2024: 'But there are conditions'

Daniel Ricciardo will make a final decision this summer on what he wants to do with the rest of his career. Speaking to The Athletic Ricciardo says that at the moment, everything points to him being back on the track in 2024, but that he will leave the final decision up to him.

Since Ricciardo took office as Red Bull's third driver, he has not been particularly visible. The Australian was not present for the first two race weekends, but at his home race, Ricciardo will obviously be back. In his own words, a return to the track is still on his radar.

"The signs are pointing towards getting back on the grid," explained the Australian. "I feel like that’s currently where I’m tracking, at least in my head. I’ve even put myself in scenarios now where I’m like, if I got back on the grid tomorrow, what would I do differently? You just don’t have the chance when you’re in it. Having the chance to step back and just review everything from afar, and with the luxury of time as well, not to be forced to make a decision or rush anything, I feel that if I’m to get back on the grid, I honestly believe I’ll be a better version of myself."

'There are some conditions'

At which team Ricciardo should then be in action is still somewhat unclear. Ferrari and Red Bull have both already committed their drivers for 2024, and at Mercedes, George Russell is already sure of a seat. Even new top team Aston Martin has already finalised both drivers for next year. So that leaves only one seat vacant at the current top.

"I want to be back with a top team," Ricciardo stressed. "To go back and to maybe put myself in any seat that’s fighting at best for like a top 10, I don’t think it’s going to bring the best out of me. I see myself, at least in my head, wanting to be back on the grid. But there’s still some terms and conditions, so to speak. It’s not at all costs."