Through its narration, the Drive to Survive revealed some grid heroes and villains. And certainly, Daniel Ricciardo was presented as a hero and a warrior as he fought against Lando Norris and Max Verstappen, thus emerging as an American heartthrob. But with him not being on the grid this year, the producers of the show must hunt for another protagonist, who is loved by all, or at least hated by none, to fill the void that Ricciardo has left.

And one of the prime contenders that the fans have named or that the speculation has driven towards is the former Red Bull and current Alpine driver, Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman has been hailed as a future “Drive to Survive” star, which would certainly boost his approval ratings. And with him going head-to-head against his teammate, Esteban Ocon, the opportunity seemed perfect, as Gasly’s story had “emotionally attached” to the show’s producer, Paul Martin.

However, the Alpine driver graciously declined the offer while lauding the acting prowess of American superstar Brad Pitt. Speaking with the media and quoted by Planet F1, the driver said, “It’s always nice to hear these sorts of things At the same time, what I say every time I go to do some filming – I’m no Brad Pitt. I’m Pierre Gasly. So I just try to be myself, and then after they have got the content they use what they want to use.”

He added, “But I think the main point was that we’re going to miss Daniel, whether it’s in Drive to Survive or whether it’s in the paddock, we’ll miss Daniel.”

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Pierre Gasly’s story has been covered extensively by the show given that it has documented his moves from Red Bull to AlphaTauri and now Alpine, covering a crucial and struggling journey of the Frenchman.

Daniel Ricciardo will not get a seat at Red Bull

The honey badger’s arrival at Red Bull as the third driver started a lot of murmurs about him replacing Sergio Perez to partner with Max Verstappen. But all the rumors have been so far shunned by the owner of the former Jordan team, Eddie Jordan.

As quoted by Planet F1, the analyst said, “There’s not a chance Checo Perez will be replaced by Daniel Ricciardo. Checo is a darling on that team. Remember what Checo does, he is brilliant foil for Max, he is strong, he can win when he needs to win, or when he has the chance and opportunity to win.”

“He brings good sponsorship to the team. I doubt Daniel Ricciardo does, not to the same level as the Mexican can bring.”

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Sergio Perez seems to have his seat solidified after he signed a multi-year extension with the team. And, with the team’s intentions of equality so clear, no party should have any reservations.