Daniel Ricciardo believes he is ready to return to the Formula 1 grid for 2024 after a challenging two seasons.
Ricciardo, who departed McLaren at the end of 2022, returned to Red Bull for 2023, taking on a reserve driver role supporting the team at the Australian and Miami Grand Prix.
“I want to keep learning with the team and see what else I can absorb over the next few races,” Ricciardo exclusively told Total-Motorsport.com. “I do want to get back next year.
“I do want to compete. I feel more refreshed, and obviously, I’ve flushed out a difficult two years. So I’m in a good place.”
Looking to enjoy Monaco
For the first time since 2011, Ricciardo will not compete in the Monaco GP, a race in which the Australian has tasted success and defeat in equal measure.
Ricciardo dominated the 2016 weekend only for a botched pitstop to cost him the win, but in 2018 the Australian overcame a technical issue to pip Sebastian Vettel for victory, sealing his Monaco redemption.
“It’s not that strange,” said Ricciardo. “Melbourne and Miami, when I’ve been there on Sunday and watched all the cars on the grid, it is a little strange not to be there or even on the grid walk.
“I think Monaco will feel pretty different as well this one is so special. I’ve always really had a love for this. So maybe I’ll be sad this weekend not being on track.
“But it’s also one that I always said when I retire one day, it’d be nice to enjoy it. I don’t consider myself retired, but at least maybe this one, I can enjoy just being a spectator.”
