BREAKING: Daniel Ricciardo to leave McLaren at the end of 2022
McLaren have confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo will exit the team after the end of the 2022 season, terminating his contract earlier than expected.
McLaren and Daniel Ricciardo have published a joint announcement, confirming that Ricciardo will leave the team at the end of the 2022 Formula 1 season.
It has been talked about for quite some time now, that Daniel Ricciardo would indeed part ways with the team, but nothing was confirmed until today. Both team and driver failed to meet the expectations set in the beginning of their relationship, and that looks to be the reason of the breakup between the team from Woking and the Aussie.
Daniel Ricciardo has been fully compensated, as the team had to terminate his contract early, giving him the opportunity to explore his options for 2023.
McLaren will most likely acquire Oscar Piastri's services for 2023: an Aussie replacing an Aussie. In the official statement, McLaren has said that "The team will confirm its full 2023 driver line-up in due course," so the news are expected to break shortly.
Daniel Ricciardo said:
"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.
"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."
Andreas Seidl, McLaren Team Principal said:
"I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far. 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."
Zak Brown, McLaren CEO said:
"Daniel has been a great addition to McLaren, and it’s been a pleasure working with him. I’d like to thank him for all of his efforts over the last two seasons both trackside and back at base.
"It’s no secret that we hoped we could achieve more together but seeing him stand on the top step of the podium as a McLaren driver was a highlight.
"We wish him well for the future and let’s go enjoy the rest of the season together."