Daniel Ricciardo returned to the F1 grid last year and garnered attention for his impressive performances. However, this soon changed with the onset of the current season, as the VCARB driver was bashed by his much younger teammate in the initial races. Despite this, the Aussie is optimistic and wants to earn a seat for the next season on the Faenza-based operation.
Daniel Ricciardo has been a fan favorite since joining the F1 grid back in 2011. However, his recent struggles in the VCARB 01 have brought back not-so-fond memories of his McLaren days. This has raised eyebrows around the paddock about whether the Aussie deserves to stay on the grid and occupy a seat, that a young driver like Liam Lawson could be performing in.
Despite the concerns, Ricciardo has firmly set his eyes on earning a full-time seat for 2025.
I'm enjoying driving now; it's not so focused on the results. Obviously, I don't want to be here just to be here; I want to earn that seat and for the team to be, hopefully, higher. Daniel Ricciardo said in an interview with SpeedCafe
The 34-year-old stated that he is enjoying driving and is not concerned about the results. However, F1 is a business that requires results and Ricciardo is well aware of this. He does not want to be on the grid just for the sake of driving but intends to earn the chance, rather than being granted one to prove his value.
Daniel Ricciardo claims bad races will be forgotten by Helmut Marko soon
The 34-year-old has not been performing up to the expected level and may again face the might of Helmut Marko soon. The Austrian has been criticizing Ricciardo for his poor performances and has also given an ultimatum to him.
However, the 34-year-old does not seem to be afraid of Marko’s criticism.
I know what he[Helmut Marko] expects and wants and it’s exactly what I want. I know it’s 24 races and it’s a long season. I have two good races now all of a sudden, the bad ones would be forgotten. Daniel Ricciardo said in an interview with Motorsport Week
The Aussie stated that he and Marko both want his performance to improve. There are still 20 more races to go and Ricciardo claims that it would only take two good performances for Marko to change his opinion.
Despite this, Ricciardo may be in for the treatment that was given to Nyck de Vries. Keeping everything in view, the upcoming races will be a fascinating watch and several eyes will be on the former’s VCARB 01 during the upcoming three-day Shanghai event.
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