Daniel Ricciardo confirmed as Pink Bull’s third driver for 2023

Pink Bull has confirmed Daniel Ricciardo will be a part of its staff as a 3rd driver subsequent season — a job that can embody testing, simulator work and business exercise.

Ricciardo had his McLaren contract reduce one yr quick over the summer time after a scarcity of on-track efficiency satisfied the staff to signal fellow Australian Oscar Piastri to switch him in 2023.

When the information broke, Ricciardo’s choices had been restricted and it quickly grew to become clear he was unlikely to proceed racing in F1 subsequent yr.

As early because the Dutch Grand Prix in September, Ricciardo admitted he was trying to F1’s prime two groups — Pink Bull and Mercedes — for a reserve position.

He stays hopeful that he can return to a race seat in 2024, though it’s unlikely to be with Pink Bull as Max Verstappen is contracted to stay on the staff till 2028 and Sergio Perez has a deal till the tip of 2024.

Pink Bull boss Christian Horner mentioned it was not the staff’s intention to line Ricciardo up as a substitute for Perez.

“No, Daniel’s contract may be very particular,” he mentioned. “We’ve got a contract with Checo [Perez] for the subsequent two years. The partnership of Max and Checo has been phenomenal for us.”

Ricciardo drove for Pink Bull from 2014 to 2018 and entered the game in 2011 with the backing of its junior driver programme. His return was leaked by Pink Bull’s senior administration over the Abu Dhabi race weekend and confirmed by the staff on Wednesday.

“The smile says all of it, I am really excited to be coming again residence to Oracle Pink Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023,” Ricciardo mentioned. “I have already got so many fond reminiscences of my time right here, however the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and your complete staff is one thing I am sincerely appreciative of.

“For me personally, the power to contribute to and be surrounded by the perfect staff in F1 is vastly interesting, while additionally giving me a while to recharge and refocus. I can not wait to be with the staff and help with simulator work, testing periods and business actions.”

Horner added: “It’s nice to carry Daniel again into the Pink Bull household. He has huge expertise and such a superb character; I do know the entire manufacturing facility is worked up to be welcoming him residence.

In his position as check and third driver, Daniel will give us the prospect to diversify, helping within the growth of the automotive, aiding the staff together with his expertise and data of what it takes to achieve F1. We’re more than happy to be working with Daniel once more and sit up for all the pieces he’ll carry to the staff in 2023.”