Daniel Ricciardo drives Red Bull’s 2023 car in Pirelli tire testing at Silverstone; It was the first time the Australian had driven the RB19 on track; Christian Horner discusses the possibility of a full-time race seat with Ricciardo’s team after the British Grand Prix
Last Updated: 11/07/23 7:10am
Daniel Ricciardo drives the RB19 for the first time at Silverstone in the Pirelli tire test
Christian Horner says Red Bull has no plans to offer a race seat to Daniel Ricciardo, who is set to drive the RB19 for the first time on Tuesday.
Ricciardo returns to Red Bull as its third driver for 2023 after leaving McLaren at the end of last season and will take part in the Pirelli tire test at Silverstone this week.
Ricciardo said last month that a „fairytale ending” to his F1 career would be to race for Red Bull again. The Australian won seven races for the team between 2014-2018 before leaving for Renault.
Horner is keen to see how Ricciardo performs in the tire test – admitting he didn’t recognize the 34-year-old’s driving style when he returned to the team – but Ricciardo’s dream career has been ruled out. .
„It’s not something we’re planning on, that’s for sure,” Horner said when asked if there was a possibility of Ricciardo taking a full-time spot with the team in the future.
„It’s perfect to give him the opportunity to be in the team this year and keep the game around.
„I think it’s a loss for the game that he’s gone and I don’t think I’ve recognized Daniel over the last couple of years so I’ll be really interested to see what kind of work he does on Tuesday.
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„It’s an important test for Prelli, but it will be good to see him back in the Red Bull car and see where he is – pace-wise and mentally, physically and to get his feedback on this car.
„So I think it’s a good opportunity for him to get back behind the wheel of a British Grand Prix-winning car.”
Ricciardo hopes to remind Red Bull that 'I can do more’
Ricciardo says he is keen to return to the Formula 1 stage next year and insists he is in shape in preparation for his return.
Ricciardo first revealed in May that he would get his first taste of Red Bull’s unbeaten 2023 car at the Silverstone tire test.
He is aiming to return to the grid in 2024 Sky Sports News At the Miami GP he hoped to remind Red Bull that he „can still do it” in this week’s test.
„I’m very happy this year and I think I’ll continue to enjoy it, but I think by next year I’ll definitely be back on the grid and eager to compete,” Ricciardo said.
“I feel there is still some unfinished business.
„I’m still working on the simulator. I’m going to jump in the car in July and get back behind the wheel.
“I think it really motivates me and gives me all those feelings.
„Obviously I’m going to put a bit of pressure on myself for that and try to remind the team that I can do it. We’ll see where it goes.
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“I know I’m ready to get back on the grid next year.
„I’m in shape. I take some time off mentally, but I love playing sports and being active, so I don’t let myself get too in shape.”
Red Bull have reigning world champion Max Verstappen under contract until 2028, while Sergio Perez is contracted to 2024 and Horner has repeatedly said the Mexico seat is not in bad shape despite seeing him fail to reach Q3 at five consecutive grands prix.
As it stands, 2024 seats are open at Mercedes – with Lewis Hamilton expected to sign an immediate contract extension – AlphaTauri, Alfa Romeo/Sauber, Haas and Williams.