Daniel Ricciardo is one of the most charismatic and talented drivers in Formula 1, known for his aggressive overtakes, wide smile, and entertaining personality. His time at McLaren, from 2021 to 2022, was filled with a mix of highs and lows, making it a crucial chapter in his career. While his Monza victory in 2021 was a historic moment, he also faced challenges in adapting to the McLaren car. This article dives deep into Daniel Ricciardo McLaren journey, analyzing his performances, struggles, and the ultimate outcome of his time with the British racing team.
Signing with McLaren: A Bold Move
Daniel Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021, signing a three-year contract after leaving Renault (now Alpine). The move was seen as a strategic step, as McLaren was showing signs of resurgence under the leadership of Zak Brown and Andreas Seidl. Paired with young British driver Lando Norris, Ricciardo was expected to bring experience, skill, and a winning mentality to the team.
The Australian driver’s decision to switch to McLaren was influenced by the team’s ambitious goals and impressive 2020 season, where they finished third in the Constructors’ Championship. Ricciardo was excited about the prospect of competing for podiums and race victories. However, adapting to McLaren’s unique car design proved to be more challenging than anticipated.
Struggles with Car Adaptation and Performance Issues
From the very start of the 2021 season, Ricciardo struggled to adapt to McLaren’s MCL35M. Unlike his previous cars at Red Bull and Renault, McLaren’s driving philosophy required a different approach, especially in braking and cornering. Ricciardo often found himself trailing behind Norris, who was much more comfortable with the car’s handling characteristics.
Throughout the first half of the season, Ricciardo’s qualifying performances and race pace were inconsistent. He faced difficulties in extracting maximum performance from the car, which impacted his confidence. Meanwhile, Norris was delivering strong performances, securing multiple podiums and outscoring Ricciardo significantly.
Monza 2021: Ricciardo’s Glorious Moment
Despite the struggles, Ricciardo proved why he was still a top-tier driver with his stunning victory at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Starting from P2, Ricciardo overtook Max Verstappen at the start and controlled the race brilliantly. His teammate Norris secured P2, resulting in McLaren’s first one-two finish since 2010.
Ricciardo’s victory at Monza was a reminder of his immense talent and racecraft. The famous words “Yeah, I never left” after his win showcased his resilience and determination. This win was McLaren’s first Grand Prix victory since 2012 and one of Ricciardo’s most celebrated career moments.
The 2022 Season: Continued Struggles and Frustration
Hopes were high for 2022, but Ricciardo continued to struggle with McLaren’s new MCL36 car under the new technical regulations. Despite working extensively with engineers to improve his performance, the results did not reflect his efforts. Norris continued to outperform him, increasing pressure on Ricciardo’s position in the team.
McLaren’s management openly acknowledged the gap between Ricciardo and Norris, stating that they were expecting better results from the Australian. As the season progressed, it became clear that Ricciardo’s future at McLaren was uncertain. The lack of consistency and adaptability to McLaren’s car concept proved to be significant obstacles.
Mutual Agreement to Part Ways
By mid-2022, speculation about Ricciardo’s departure grew stronger. In August 2022, McLaren and Ricciardo mutually agreed to terminate his contract one year early. This decision was difficult but necessary for both parties. McLaren decided to bring in rookie Oscar Piastri for 2023, signaling a fresh start for the team.
For Ricciardo, this marked an emotional end to a challenging chapter. Despite his struggles, he remained professional and committed until his final race with McLaren. His farewell from the team was filled with appreciation from fans and team members, acknowledging his contributions and dedication.
Ricciardo’s Legacy at McLaren
Although Ricciardo’s tenure at McLaren was shorter than expected, his impact was significant. The Monza 2021 victory remains one of the most iconic moments in recent McLaren history. His presence also contributed to McLaren’s growing fanbase, thanks to his charisma and marketability.
However, his time with McLaren also serves as a lesson in how crucial car compatibility is in Formula 1. Even a highly skilled driver like Ricciardo can struggle if the car does not suit their driving style. While his McLaren journey did not meet expectations, it did not diminish his legacy as a top-tier driver.
What’s Next for Daniel Ricciardo?
After leaving McLaren, Ricciardo took on a reserve driver role at Red Bull Racing for the 2023 season. This move allowed him to stay connected to F1 while considering his next career step. Many fans hope to see him return to the grid in a competitive seat, believing that he still has the talent to compete at the highest level.
His experience with McLaren has undoubtedly shaped him as a driver. Whether he makes a full-time return to F1 or explores other racing avenues, Ricciardo remains one of the most beloved and respected drivers in the motorsport world.
Conclusion
Daniel Ricciardo’s McLaren journey was a mix of triumphs and challenges. While his struggles with car adaptation and consistency were evident, his Monza 2021 victory will forever be etched in F1 history. His time at McLaren serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Formula 1, where talent alone is not always enough.
Despite parting ways with McLaren, Ricciardo’s legacy in the sport remains strong. Whether it’s his electrifying overtakes, infectious energy, or resilience, he continues to be a fan favorite. As his journey in motorsport unfolds, fans eagerly await his next chapter.
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FAQ’s Section
Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021, believing the team had strong potential to compete for podiums and victories after their impressive 2020 season.
His biggest achievement was winning the 2021 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, securing McLaren’s first victory since 2012.
He struggled due to difficulties adapting to McLaren’s unique car design, which did not suit his driving style, leading to inconsistent performances.
McLaren and Ricciardo mutually agreed to terminate his contract early due to his underperformance and the team’s decision to bring in Oscar Piastri for 2023.
After leaving McLaren, Ricciardo became a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing in 2023, keeping his options open for a potential full-time F1 return.