It is only the second day of the Formula 1 summer break and the stories outside the paddock keep unraveling. At this time of the year, the negotiations between the drivers and constructors are in their prime. The new name emerging amidst these future contract talks is McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo.

Aston Martin’s Sebastian Vettel stunned the motorsport world by announcing his retirement. To fill the void, the constructor quickly announced the signing of the two-time world champion, Fernando Alonso. The knock-on effect has resulted in a seat being vacant at the French constructor (Alpine) for the 2023 season.

In 2020, the pandemic was not the only bad news for the team powered by the Renault engine. Very early that season, Ricciardo announced an astonishing move to McLaren for 2021. ‘Honey Badger‘ signed a three-year deal and aimed to reach his F1 title ambitions with the papaya outfit.

It is no secret that the last couple of years have been rough for him. Daniel Ricciardo has failed to replicate the highs of Monza 2021 and match the pace set by Lando Norris. However, during the second half of his last season (2020) with Renault, the Aussie secured consistent results and multiple podium finishes. He was a threat and outscored his teammate, Esteban Ocon, effortlessly.

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The Perth-Born racing driver ended the season in P5 and was the best of the rest. A move back to the French outfit could appeal to him as he has struggled with McLaren and is a proven racing driver under what is now Alpine.

F1 Twitter pleads with Daniel Ricciardo to jump ship

The 33-year-old has been renowned as the ‘last of the late brakers’. Nevertheless, the inability to get on top of his MCL36 has robbed the Aussie of the opportunity to show why he is called the honey badger. Motivated by the empty seat at Alpine, F1 Twitter wants to see the star back with his old crew.

Presently, 21-year-old Alpine test driver Oscar Piastri is the favorite to sign with the team for the 2023 season. The team has significantly invested in the 2021 Formula 2 champion who has emerged from their academy.

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In whichever direction the pendulum swings, it looks certain that the paddock would see an Australian racing driver in the vacant Alpine seat. Who do you think the French team should sign to chase its ambitions of winning races? Will they back youth or experience?