McLaren confirm Ricciardo exit

McLaren

McLaren confirm Ricciardo exit

Ricciardo and McLaren have terminated the 2023 contract by mutual consent

Sam Hall

Wednesday 24 August 2022 16:10 Updated: 18:53

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McLaren has confirmed that Daniel Ricciardo will not race for the team in 2023 after the Australian's contract was terminated by mutual consent.

Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021 from Renault and was under contract to remain with the team through to the end of next season.

But after a disappointing first year and a half, the team has reached a settlement to end the relationship a year early.

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“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 [McLaren Racing CEO ] Zak [Brown] and [team principal] Andreas [Seidl, we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season," said Ricciardo.

"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.”

Ricciardo's future had been a source of speculation for several months with this intensifying after it was reported that Alpine reserve driver Oscar Piastri had signed a pre-contract agreement to race alongside Lando Norris at McLaren next year.

Ricciardo "fighting spirit" praised

Despite enduring a tough period at McLaren where he never entirely got to grips with the machinery, Ricciardo was more often than not able to put a positive face on what were often difficult results.

“I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far," said Seidl.

"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."

On Ricciardo's time with McLaren, Brown added: “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."