The McLaren Formula 1 team has confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo will depart the team at the end of the 2022 campaign.
Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021 on a three-year deal, and enjoyed the highlight of winning last year’s Italian Grand Prix – McLaren’s first win in nine years.
However, his stint at the Woking-based squad was marred by underwhelming performances, and he was often outpaced by team-mate Lando Norris.
His seat for 2023 was subject to major question marks when Oscar Piastri declared he wouldn’t race for Alpine next year, with reports emerging that he had agreed an option with McLaren.
Ricciardo has not yet stated what his plans for 2023 are, however he has been linked to the vacant seat at Alpine or a switch to Haas alongside Kevin Magnussen.
“It’s been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons but following several months of discussions with Zak & Andreas we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season,” Ricciardo said.
“I’ll be announcing my own future plans in due course but regardless of what this next chapter brings, I have no regrets and am proud of the effort and work I gave McLaren, especially the win in Monza, last season.
“I’ve enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and back in Woking and will be giving my all on and off track as we enjoy the remainder of the season together.
“I’ve never been more motivated to compete and be a part of a sport that I love so much and look forward to what comes next.”
McLaren says that it will announce its complete 2023 driver line-up in due course.
Team boss Andreas Seidl thanked Ricciardo for his services at the team and asserted that both parties remain committed to enjoying a strong remainder of the 2022 campaign.
“I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far,” he said. “Despite the shared challenges, he has always turned up with a fighting spirit and positivity and helped the entire team to always keep pushing forward.
“We will never forget that memorable race win in Monza which was a great boost for the whole team. We still have an important battle in the Constructors’ Championship ahead of us for the remainder of the season and we look forward to battle this out with Daniel and Lando.”
I’m shocked that Lyin’ King Zak Brown was BSing all of us when only weeks ago he said Ricciardo would definitely be in a McLaren F1 car next season. And he’s usually so honest!
see ya in indycar soon chump lol