Daniel Ricciardo ‘could move to Mercedes’ in what would be a RADICAL career move for the unwanted Australian F1 star
- Former McLaren F1 star Daniel Ricciardo could work with Mercedes in 2023
- As backup drivers, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell would be the most important men
- The likes of Williams and Haas are also reportedly interested in chatting with the Perth-born driver
- Ricciardo has stated he is “open” to all offers and could sit out next year
F1 powerhouse Mercedes has emerged as a shock option for Daniel Ricciardo after his brutal ax from McLaren.
The unwanted Australian was ousted by compatriot Oscar Piastri, despite having one more season to run on his mammoth $20m-a-year contract – leaving him without a spot on the starting lineup for 2023.
With options quickly drying up, Ricciardo has been linked with Williams and Haas, while following last weekend’s Dutch GP it emerged that the 33-year-old may also be taking a 12-month break from the sport.
Haas team principle, cult Drive to survive Character Günther Steiner reportedly reached out to Ricciardo before mid-season to gauge his interest.
But could a sensational move to Mercedes as a reserve driver be on the horizon?
F1 powerhouse Mercedes has emerged as a shock option for Daniel Ricciardo for 2023 after his brutal ax from McLaren
Ricciardo, who grew up in Perth, was replaced at McLaren by compatriot Oscar Piastri (pictured), despite having one season left on his mammoth $20m-a-year contract
Adding to the speculation is the Perth-raised driver, who says he is “open-minded” when it comes to his options next year.
With Lewis Hamilton and George Russell the established top two drivers for Mercedes, the move could be mutually beneficial if Ricciardo is willing to take a back seat.
The man himself confirmed that he will explore all his options.
“I’m pretty open to any scenario. I think there are pros and cons with all of this,” Ricciardo said.
“That’s why I really want to hear everything. Even if it’s a reserve, I don’t want to be too proud to say I’m too good for it.
“I just want to hear and see anything that makes sense.”
F1 writer Joe Saward said a move to Mercedes could boost Ricciardo’s confidence.
With Lewis Hamilton (pictured) and George Russell, the two established lead drivers for Mercedes, Ricciardo would be a back-up option
After a disappointing 17th place finish at the last start at the Netherlands GP, Ricciardo revealed he had caught up with young Wilden Piastri and his manager Mark Webber to clear the air and ensure there were no lingering tensions.
“I spoke to Oscar and just made sure there weren’t any bad feelings,” he said.
“He’s trying to get into Formula 1. This moment should be really big for him.
“I don’t want to put him in a bad situation and that’s it. It’s nothing personal.
‘So that was all the talk was. I really wish him all the best. I want him to have a good run in Formula 1.”
The F1 season continues this weekend with the Italian Grand Prix televised from 11pm (AEST) on Sunday.
Last September, Ricciardo McLaren led home at Monza with a one-two ahead of team-mate Lando Norris.
