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Australian F1 star Daniel Ricciardo is set to retire from racing in 2023 but is determined to return after that.
Ricciardo was linked with a number of teams, but his options quickly became limited.
Alpine confirmed the signing of Pierre Gasly over the weekend, with AlphaTauri quickly replacing Gasly with Nyck de Vries.
Both Haas and Williams continue to need a driver for next season, but Ricciardo doesn’t seem too keen on either option and is now willing to spend a year on the sidelines.
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“I think the reality now is that I won’t be at the start in 2023. I think now he’s just trying to prepare for 24,” Ricciardo said.
“The way I see it, it’s kind of like taking a break for a while and, let’s say, as far as my career in F1 is concerned, the full intention is on the 24th.
“As much fun or cool as it sounds to compete in something else, the truth is, mentally, I’m not there yet.
“I’m still so, so into it and I think some time out of the seat will probably benefit me.”
Only TWO SEATS remain on #F1 2023 network!
Who fills them? pic.twitter.com/3Eep5h6KR4
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 8, 2022
Ricciardo has had a difficult year in Formula 1 so far, with his best finish last time out in Singapore, where he finished fifth.
The 33-year-old has been racing consistently in F1 since 2012, winning a total of eight races.
The Aussie has recently been linked with a move to Mercedes next year, where he would become their reserve driver with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell to continue leading the team.
Such a move could still be on the cards for Ricciardo, with his recent comments suggesting he may be happy to take up such a position until a better move comes along in 2024.
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