Formula 1 fans around the globe were left disappointed when the news broke that Daniel Ricciardo would not have a seat with a team for the 2023 championship.
Known for his charismatic personality and impressive skills on the track, the 33-year-old Australian is currently serving as a test and reserve driver for Red Bull after his contract with McLaren ended prematurely last year.
However, fans may not have to wait too long before witnessing the return of the beloved “Honey Badger” to the racing grid, as Ricciardo has expressed his readiness to make a comeback for the 2024 season.
In an interview with Red Bull’s YouTube channel, he shared his current state of contentment and his passion for racing.
“Of course racing is my passion. I would love to go through what Max and Checo are feeling – that excitement, that adrenaline and all those emotions, but I’m in a place where I feel like it’s all happening at the right time for the right reason.”
While he acknowledges his strong desire to be back in a race seat, Ricciardo believes that the timing and circumstances need to be right for his return. He has gained valuable insights and a deeper understanding of what he would do differently when he eventually jumps back into the Formula 1 scene.
Even during his time at the track in Melbourne and watching the qualifying sessions, Ricciardo could feel his eagerness building up, evident through his tapping leg. However, he wants to ensure that his hunger for racing is exploding out of his skin before making a full-fledged comeback.
Although he is currently content with his situation and does not regret taking this year off, Ricciardo believes that by the end of the year, he will be fully prepared to rejoin the grid.
“Being at the track in Melbourne and even during qualifying I noticed my leg was tapping. I was certainly starting to feel it, so the hunger is still there.”
“I’m happy, but by the end of the year I think I’ll be ready to go.”
F1 fans can eagerly await the return of the Honey Badger, hoping to witness his thrilling performances on the track once again.
