Daniel Ricciardo will leave McLaren at the end of the 2022 season after the team bought him out of his contract, a year before the deal was set to expire.
The Australian has struggled with the Woking-based team since he joined from the then Renault team but did claim a memorable victory at Monza in 2021.
Doubts over his seat came about when Oscar Piastri confirmed that he would not be racing for Alpine next season, despite an official announcement from the team stating that he would be.
He is now free to find a seat elsewhere for the 2023 season with seats still yet to be confirmed at Alpine, Haas, Williams, Alfa Romeo, and Alpha Tauri.
Daniel Ricciardo said:
“It’s been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons but following several months of discussions with Zak & Andreas we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season. I’ll be announcing my own future plans in due course but regardless of what this next chapter brings, I have no regrets and am proud of the effort and work I gave McLaren, especially the win in Monza, last season. I’ve enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and back in Woking and will be giving my all on and off track as we enjoy the remainder of the season together. I’ve never been more motivated to compete and be a part of a sport that I love so much and look forward to what comes next.”
Andreas Seidl, Team Principal, McLaren F1 Team, said:
“I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far. Despite the shared challenges, he has always turned up with a fighting spirit and positivity and helped the entire team to always keep pushing forward. We will never forget that memorable race win in Monza which was a great boost for the whole team. We still have an important battle in the Constructors’ Championship ahead of us for the remainder of the season and we look forward to battle this out with Daniel and Lando.”
Zak Brown, CEO, McLaren Racing, said:
“Daniel has been a great addition to McLaren, and it’s been a pleasure working with him. I’d like to thank him for all of his efforts over the last two seasons both trackside and back at base. It’s no secret that we hoped we could achieve more together but seeing him stand on the top step of the podium as a McLaren driver was a highlight. We wish him well for the future and let’s go enjoy the rest of the season together.”