Daniel Ricciardo has said that due to having no suitable offers to stay on the F1 grid in 2023, he’s aiming for a triumphant return the following year, insisting that he “needs” a break from the sport to “reset”.
The Aussie driver confirmed in Japan that he won’t be racing in Formula 1 next year after McLaren called time on his contract as teammate Lando Norris continued to outperform him in the MCL36.
Although teams such as Williams and Haas were showing serious interest in the eight-time race winner, Ricciardo told Sky Sports he is looking forward to a year off.
“It’s something I’ve certainly evaluated since the summer break,” he said.
“I wanted to give it a few races and the more time that passes, the more I feel like it’s what I need. Albeit as well the opportunities… there’s not really anything in the form of next year!
“It’s part I would like the break and need to reset a little bit, and part 2024 as well, some other things may open up.”
Ricciardo will now aim for a 2024 return to F1 and said it is not likely he will try his hand in another racing series next year.
“I think that there could be some better opportunities in 2024, so that’s really what all this confirms and now where the sights are set,” added Ricciardo during the Japanese GP weekend.
“Certainly the plan is still to be involved in F1.
“It’s kind of like just hitting pause for a little bit, as I see it – and let’s say as far as my F1 career goes the full intention is [to be driving] for ’24.”
