Daniel Ricciardo sticks with bold decision over F1 future: 'I'm doing the right thing'

Daniel Ricciardo says he is excited about having a relatively calm and collected 2023 as Red Bull's reserve driver.

Life as a Formula 1 driver is anything but stress-free, and after the shock of learning that he would not have a seat for the 2023 F1 season, Ricciardo is adamant he is looking forward to sitting on the sidelines for a while.

"I am sure that I will drive in the course of the season, but I cannot say that I'm burning with desire for it. I'm still happy that 2023 is starting off pretty calmly for me," he said.

"I still think I'm doing the right thing, and we'll see how things play out over the next couple of months."

Best opportunity

He claims there was interest from other teams in his services, but he felt Red Bull was the best opportunity even though he is not in the car this year.

"I did talk with other teams, but deep down, I knew that it would lead nowhere," he said.

"I thought about whether I really wanted to stay on the grid, and when I was able to answer myself honestly, I realised I wanted to rest for the season."

Teammate Sergio Perez is also unconcerned about Ricciardo's presence in the Red Bull pits this season.

"When you're at Red Bull, you have to do your best," Perez said.

"It doesn't matter if Daniel is here or not because Red Bull can pick pretty much any driver it wants on the grid.

"Max and I have to work together to bring the title to the team.

"That is why a compromise is necessary, and the team must always come first. It's not just about Max or me."