Ricciardo not going to Mercedes according to Helmut Marko: 'He's not leaving'

After it was announced that Lewis Hamilton will move to Ferrari in 2025, thus leaving Mercedes, the rumour mill quickly started turning and a whole list of drivers who could replace the seven-time world champion emerged. Meanwhile, we can already tick off one of those names according to Helmut Marko.

Most drivers are out of contract after 2024, so there is plenty of room for driver changes. So, too, Daniel Ricciardo, the possible successor to Sergio Perez at Red Bull's team. And despite that, he is still mentioned in the list of names that could succeed Lewis Hamilton. Earlier in the week, a British newspaper suggested he was a leading candidate.

The chances of the ever-smiling Australian actually leaving for Mercedes' team are slim. This is because, according to Helmut Marko, Ricciardo has other commitments: ''Ricciardo still has a long-term contract and is not available,'' the Austrian told F1-insider.com. This is striking since Daniel Ricciardo's contract, like that of many others, expires after the 2024 season. This gives the impression that much action may have already been taken behind the scenes regarding the switch to Red Bull Racing or not extending his contract at Visa Cash App RB. Has Helmut Marko let something slip again?