“It’s Why I’m Being Talked About”: Daniel Ricciardo Finds Solace in Singular Belief Amid McLaren F1 Backlash

Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo believes that he still has it in him. The McLaren driver has seen a string of bad performances as soon as he joined the Woking outfit. The car, contrary to his usual driving style, has simply not suited Ricciardo, who as a result still struggles to even finish in points.

Though the Aussie has won the team a Grand Prix last season, his inconsistency shadows the positives. 13th in Monaco, 12th in Spain, and 18th at Imola speak tons about his current form with the car. To make things worse, teammate Lando Norris is thriving in the same car and has even turned in points tonsillitis ridden.

However, Ricciardo is still confident that he can turn it around with the MCL-36. He revealed, “At the end of the day, people care. I think it’s why I’m probably being talked about finishing 13th because people think I can – know that I can – be better. I guess it speaks to my results in the past and I guess me as a driver that people believe in me, simply.”

Ricciardo has been under fire from all ends in the past few days. Constant comparisons with Norris and his inability to gel with the car even after a full year have not gone unnoticed. Still, a hopeful Ricciardo further added, “I also don’t expect an amazing narrative when when I cross the line in 13th.” 

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“But I like pressure. It’s a good platform to perform on, and it’s why I sign up to this – I love it. I think it makes success after struggle always taste a little sweeter. So that’s what I look forward to.” 

With his past records up for everyone to see, the ‘Honey Badger’ is clearly hopeful of a return despite tough days at McLaren.

Is Daniel Ricciardo over at McLaren?

McLaren CEO Zak Brown shocked everyone with an update on Ricciardo’s situation a while ago. In a press conference, it was admitted that both Ricciardo and the team have not met expectations. Moreover, certain “mechanisms” could let Daniel go a lot sooner than his designated contract. Further, Brown was brutally honest in admitting disappointment in the Australian.

Pierre Gasly’s name has also popped up in the media ever since Brown’s admission. Red Bull shut its doors for the Frenchman till at least 2024, which might force him to look elsewhere. Gasly is a very probable candidate for the McLaren seat, given his talent and experience in F1.

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Further, the Woking outfit is also keen on IndyCar sensations Pato O’Ward and Colton Herta. With driver programs set in place, we might see the two youngsters fighting for that seat soon. So, what are your thoughts? Can Ricciardo improve? Or has Brown made up his mind?