Daniel Ricciardo leaving McLaren at the end of 2022

Published on 24 August 2022 by Mike Motilall

The McLaren team have announced that Daniel Ricciardo will be leaving at the end of this season. Despite the fact that the always smiling Ozzie had a valid contract for 2023, both parties have agreed to prematurely terminate the agreement.

Because of disappointing results, Ricciardo’s position at McLaren came under pressure for some time now. His team mate Lando Norris is currently miles ahead in the championship and finished way ahead of him last year in the championship as well. Ricciardo’s best at McLaren was his win at the Italian Grand Prix last year on the Monza circuit. This was his eighth win overall in his Formula 1-career.

Ricciardo had the following to say about leaving McLaren: “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 Zak & Andreas we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season. 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.”

McLaren have shared that they will soon announce who will be partnered next to Lando Norris in 2023. The most likely candidate is Oscar Piastri. The reigning Formula 2-champion was confirmed to be driving for Alpine a few weeks ago, but the Ozzie denied to have signed with Alpine. Piastri was, together with his manager Mark Webber, apparently finalizing talks at McLaren to replace Ricciardo.