F1: Ricciardo and Red Bull back together for 2023

Daniel Ricciardo has signed to return to Red Bull for the 2023 season as he takes the role of the third driver. The previous McLaren driver lost his drive to previous F2 champion Oscar Piastri. As Ricciardo takes the opportunity to take a sabbatical from full-time racing.

Ricciardo, who drove for the team last in 2018, experienced great success while racing with the team. He would take seven race wins, most famously at the 2018 Monaco Grand Prix. He finished third place in the championship twice with Red Bull. Throughout his time with the team he would fight hard throughout his four years, fighting against his teammate Max Verstappen

Since leaving Red Bull Ricciardo has raced at Renault and McLaren. During his time at these teams, it has led to some challenge times for Ricciardo. The highlight of Ricciardo’s time at McLaren was his famous win at Monza. He managed to hold off his teammate, Lando Norris in the incredibly dramatic Grand Prix.

His final Grand Prix was at Abu Dhabi where he finished in a respectable ninth position. This result allowed the Australian to finish 11^th in the 2022 championship. It was an emotional end to this chapter in his career as he takes a break from a full-time drive.

Daniel Ricciardo said: “The smile says it all, I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023. I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of. For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus. I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner added: “It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character. I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home.

“In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car. Aiding the team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1. We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the team in 2023.”

Image from Red Bull Media House