The news that everyone was expecting, finally became official. Let's talk about Daniel Ricciardo and his future in McLaren.
McLaren-Ricciardo, it's officially over
Through a statement, during the afternoon, McLaren has announced that Daniel Ricciardo will leave the Woking team at the end of the season. Therefore, all the news and rumors spread in the previous weeks are confirmed. For the Australian, it concludes, one year in advance of your contract expiry, the McLaren adventure.
The other Australian prepares
With this announcement, the road to Piastri therefore seems be flattened. Despite the Alpine be ready to go in court, the contract that the Woking team signed with the young Australian driver is very valid and, according to McLaren, there are no valid reasons why the agreement found can jump.
Ricciardo: "It was a great privilege"
There were, following the announcement, the words of Daniel Ricciardo who declared:
“It has been a privilege to be part of the McLaren Racing family for the past two seasons, but after several months of discussions with Zak and 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 will announce my 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 have put into McLaren, especially their win at Monza last season. I have enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and in Woking and will be giving my all on and off the track as we enjoy the rest 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 can't wait for what comes next."
Seidl: "We can't wait to finish the season with him"
Together with Daniel, the words of team principal Andreas Seidl are also recorded:
“I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the past two seasons so far. He always showed up with a fighting spirit and positivity and helped the whole team to always keep going. We will never forget that memorable race victory in Monza which was a big boost for the whole team. We still have an important battle in the Constructors' Championship ahead of us for the rest of the season and we are looking forward to it with Daniel and Lando.”
Brown: “A pleasure to work with him”
Finally, also came the greeting of the CEO of McLaren Zak Brown:
“Daniel has been a great addition to McLaren and it has been a pleasure to work with him. I would like to thank him for all of his efforts over the past two seasons both trackside and at the venue. It's no secret that we hoped we could achieve more together, but seeing him take the top step of the podium as a McLaren driver was a highlight. We wish him well for the future and let's go and enjoy the rest of the season together."
