Both the American races for 2022 are done and so is the current F1 season in terms of the championships. Max Verstappen snatched the victory and the constructors’ championship as well. However, it wasn’t a great weekend for everyone, especially for Daniel Ricciardo, who finished P16.

The Australian spoke candidly after the race, talking about his struggles with the McLaren car. Ricciardo never really looked comfortable in his McLaren seat, which he will inadvertently vacate for the upcoming season. The Australian has publicly confessed he might spend the year on the sidelines. However, former teammate and world champion Max Verstappen feels he can pursue other options.

On the Pardon My Take podcast, the hosts were talking about Ricciardo’s love for Texas, and Verstappen chimed in with a joke. The Red Bull man jokingly said, “I think he’s actually born in the US, maybe here in Austin actually. He’s not born in Perth in Australia. That’s just a big coverup, but yeah, he loves it. I remember when he was my teammate as well, he was always super excited to come back here.”

This gave one host to ponder upon the question if deep down Ricciardo wants to be a NASCAR driver. To this Verstappen said, “I mean, it would suit him for sure.” Sergio Perez sitting alongside Verstappen also chimed in and said, “he would love it.”

The interviewer even confessed, “He’d be pretty good at it,” while comparing Ricciardo to Dale Earnhardt. And the 25-year-old nodded his head in agreement.

Read More: Wild Theories Go Around as Dale Earnhardt Jr Reveals Goodie Bag From Teamless F1 Star Daniel Ricciardo

Despite his backing, the Dutchman would still like to see his former teammate make his way back to the most prestigious form of racing.

Max Verstappen reacts to Ricciardo’s uncertain F1 future

Before Verstappen confessed that he could see Ricciardo make his way to NASCAR, he also admitted it would be a shame to lose the Australian. “I think to let him go will be a shame,” said Verstappen when asked about Ricciardo’s want for a sabbatical.

“But yeah, I hope he can continue because I think he still has a lot left in him to perform. I really hope that he will get a seat somewhere in F1, so he can show his talent again,” Verstappen backed his former teammate.

WATCH THIS STORY: McLaren F1 Boss Uses Carlos Sainz and Daniel Ricciardo to Highlight Major Flaws With Red Bull Racing

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There are a lot of rumors flying around, surrounding Ricciardo. One can only hope the silly season turns out for the best for the Honey Badger.