Daniel Ricciardo has experienced a remarkable dip in fortunes in recent years.
Once viewed as a potential world champion, it seems that every decision that the Australian has made over the last few seasons has ended up negatively affecting his career.
He moved from Red Bull to Renault for the 2019 season, and while he did have some success with the team, the move also ruled him out of competing at the very top of the standings. His subsequent switch to McLaren has proven to be a disaster, culminating with the recent announcement that he would not be racing for them in 2023.
That leaves Ricciardo's future in Formula 1 very much in doubt.
Few seats will be available next year, and considering his recent decline in performance, the 33-year old could be in the midst of his final season in the sport.
Lewis Hamilton responds to Daniel Ricciardo
Daniel Ricciardo himself is of course keen to continue in F1, with some suggesting he could act as a backup driver for one of the top teams in 2023.
However, Lewis Hamilton doesn't agree.
Appearing on stage alongside the Aussie earlier today, the Brit suggested that Ricciardo was too talented to be a backup when questioned about the possibility of him filling the role at Mercedes next year.
"I think he should be racing, I think he's far too talented" 💪
Wholesome stuff between Lewis and Danny Ric ❤️ pic.twitter.com/vE4t3ogcqs— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) September 8, 2022
I think he should be racing, personally. I think he's far too talented and has earned the right to be amongst us all racing.
Of course, if he is part of our team it would be great, but the role is not really, I think, the best for him.
If I was managing him, he would be racing.
He has a point.
By the way, that is an homage to teammate Lando Norris on the McLaren driver's neck.
Looks good on you @danielricciardo https://t.co/yXOgLMnndV
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) September 8, 2022
Daniel Ricciardo is among the most popular personalities in F1, especially for those introduced to the sport via Drive to Survive.
It would certainly be a massive shame where he not to have a seat for 2023.
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