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Confirmed: Daniel Ricciardo heads to McLaren
Australian Formula 1® driver Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed his switch from Renault to McLaren
It’s official, Daniel Ricciardo has completed his move to McLaren in the latest Formula 1® domino to fall.
The Perth-born Formula 1® driver will take the seat vacated by Carlos Sainz Jr at McLaren, partnering with British driver Lando Norris.
Two of the most popular characters off the track, the combination of Ricciardo and 20-year-old Norris certainly has fans looking forward to seeing the pairing in action.
Sebastian Vettel kicked off the chain of movement across the F1®, announcing he was leaving Ferrari earlier this week.
His position at the Italian team has been snapped up by Sainz, leaving Ricciardo to swoop in at McLaren.
After crossing to Renault from Red Bull for the 2019 season, Ricciardo will join McLaren for the beginning of the 2021 Formula 1® season.
McLaren finished in 4th position in the World Constructor’s Championship in 2019. Now Ricciardo heads to McLaren.
Ricciardo’s first season at Renault in 2019 saw his lowest finish in the Drivers Championship since 2013 (9th position).
But the Aussie’s time at Renault hasn’t come to an end just yet, saying, “We aren’t done and I can’t wait to get back on the grid this year. My next chapter isn’t here yet, so let’s finish this one strong.”
How many races Ricciardo has left at Renault is still unclear, but Ricciardo will hopefully make his debut in his new colours on home soil at the 2021 Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix.
Speaking of the switch, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown says, “Signing Daniel is another step forward in our long-term plan and will bring an exciting new dimension to the team, alongside Lando.
“This is good news for our team, partners and of course our fans.”
Australian Grand Prix Corporation CEO Andrew Westacott also spoke of the move, saying, “McLaren has a rich history at the Formula 1® Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, with David Coulthard and Jenson Button twice winning here in a McLaren, as well as Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton once each, so we’re excited to see what’s in store for Daniel next year.
“They’re switching to a Mercedes power unit in 2021 which will hopefully have them in contention for championship honours.”
There are still several moves to be made across the Formula 1® for the 2021 season, with the biggest name currently in limbo being Sebastian Vettel.
But for now, we can certainly expect the 2021 Albert Park Circuit to be bathed in orange as Daniel Ricciardo steps out for his new McLaren Racing team.
