Red Bull's secret weapon: Daniel Ricciardo's infectious mojo and positive energy

Red Bull's Team Principal, Christian Horner, has praised the impact of Daniel Ricciardo's return to the team, calling him a "positive energy" for the outfit.

Ricciardo is playing a secondary role to Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez at Red Bull. Despite being the Austrian sides reserve driver for the 2023 season, his presence at the Australian Grand Prix was visible, and Horner quickly noted his contribution to the team.

"It's great to have him back in blue and be back in the team," Horner told media.

"This was the first Grand Prix he’s attended this year, and he's thrown himself into it. Sitting in all the briefings, he's worked hard on the simulator as well in the UK doing race support and development work."

Horner also spoke highly of Ricciardo's infectious positivity, saying, "He lights up a room when he walks in."

Despite not being a race driver, Ricciardo remains one of the most popular drivers in Formula 1, and Horner acknowledged his contribution to the team.

"For us, it’s just positive to have him in the team, contributing to the team, to the drivers, to the engineering team. And hopefully, he'll rediscover his love for the sport."

Horner's praise of Ricciardo was not limited to his impact on the team, as he also spoke about the Australian's personal growth since leaving Red Bull in 2018.

"It's great to see him getting his mojo back, to see that big smile on his face," said Horner. "And hopefully, he'll rediscover his love for the sport."

While there has been speculation about Ricciardo's happiness with his current position, Horner remained optimistic about the future and assured that the Australian would get to do some testing for Red Bull later in the year.

"I think it's a different experience. It must be very tough