Daniel Ricciardo Set to Make Formula One Comeback at Hungarian Grand Prix

What does this comeback mean for Daniel Ricciardo’s future in Formula One?

After exiting McLaren at the end of 2022, Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo is ready to make his return to Formula One racing at the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix. Here are the key points surrounding Ricciardo’s comeback:

Ricciardo’s time as a support driver for Red Bull this season has now led to a full-time racing opportunity with AlphaTauri. He will be taking over from Dutchman Nyck de Vries, who has struggled to secure any points in his debut season with the team.

Before officially signing with AlphaTauri, Ricciardo had the chance to prove his skills during a tyre testing session at Silverstone. The Australian driver showcased impressive lap times, solidifying his readiness to return to the track.

Upon the announcement of his return, Ricciardo expressed his excitement about rejoining the Red Bull family. He stated, ‘I am stoked to be back on track with the Red Bull family,’ highlighting his enthusiasm for this next chapter in his career.

AlphaTauri’s team principal, Franz Tost, also shared his enthusiasm for Ricciardo’s return, emphasizing his confidence in the driver’s abilities and experience. Tost mentioned, ‘There’s no doubt about his driving skills, and he already knows many of us, so his integration will be easy and straightforward.’

Ricciardo’s return to the cockpit during the tyre testing session at Silverstone after his departure from McLaren showcased his impeccable form and the progress he has been making in simulator sessions. Red Bull principal Christian Horner commented on Ricciardo’s impressive performance, stating, ‘His times during the tyre test were extremely competitive. It was a very impressive drive, and we are excited to see what the rest of the season brings for Daniel on loan at Scuderia AlphaTauri.’

The speculation around Ricciardo’s future in Formula One has been fueled by his move to AlphaTauri, Red Bull’s feeder team. With rumors circulating about a potential reunion with Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2024, Ricciardo’s career trajectory continues to capture attention and anticipation.

Both Horner and Ricciardo have expressed their mutual satisfaction with the Australian driver’s return to the Red Bull family. Horner remarked that Ricciardo had regained his ‘mojo,’ while Ricciardo himself described a potential return to Red Bull as a ‘fairytale ending’ to his racing career.

• Ricciardo will replace Nyck de Vries at AlphaTauri for the remainder of the 2023 F1 season
• He recently tested the Red Bull at Silverstone and recorded fast lap times
• AlphaTauri team principal Franz Tost expressed his excitement about Daniel’s return

Daniel Ricciardo’s comeback to Formula One has generated excitement and intrigue among fans and insiders alike. As he prepares to take the wheel at the Hungarian Grand Prix, all eyes will be on the Australian driver to see how he performs in his new role with AlphaTauri. Will Ricciardo’s return help propel him to even greater heights in the world of racing?