Ricciardo relieved: 'I wanted to let everyone know straight away'

Daniel Ricciardo publicly announced over a week ago that he wants to race for McLaren next season as well. The Australian had a clear reason to communicate this, he tells in conversation with Formule1.nl.

Since his arrival at McLaren, Ricciardo has faced a lot of criticism. The driver does not meet the expectations and has teammate Lando Norris next to him who does a lot better. A departure seemed long in the air.

As Ricciardo still has a contract until the end of 2023, it is not easy for McLaren to say goodbye to him. He himself seems not to be open to a departure. He said that not only to reassure the fans, but also to inform the employees.

"It was for the people who follow me, for my fans, who wonder 'what is Daniel going to do? Is this the end?' No, no, not at all. So I wanted to let everyone know straight away," Ricciardo stated, then pointing towards the people at the factory. "I have the commitment to this team."