25/08/2022
NEWS STORY
McLaren and Daniel Ricciardo have confirmed that his 2023 contract has been terminated early as both parties have mutually agreed that he will leave the team at the end of the 2022 season.
Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021 and has "enjoyed some racing highlights during his time with the team", according to today's press release, "including winning the 2021 Italian Grand Prix in Monza".
"McLaren was the only team to achieve a one-two last season en route to securing fourth position in the Constructors' Championship," adds the Woking outfit, which says it will "confirm its full 2023 driver line-up in due course".
"It's been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons," said the Australian, "but following several months of discussions with Zak & Andreas we have decided to terminate my contract with the team early and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season.
"I'll be announcing my own future plans in due course but regardless of what this next chapter brings, I have no regrets and am proud of the effort and work I gave McLaren, especially the win in Monza, last season. I've enjoyed working with everyone at McLaren both trackside and back in Woking and will be giving my all on and off track as we enjoy the remainder of the season together. I've never been more motivated to compete and be a part of a sport that I love so much and look forward to what comes next."
"I would like to thank Daniel for his dedication and contribution over the last two seasons so far," added Andreas Seidl. "Despite the shared challenges, he has always turned up with a fighting spirit and positivity and helped the entire team to always keep pushing forward.
"We will never forget that memorable race win in Monza which was a great boost for the whole team. We still have an important battle in the Constructors' Championship ahead of us for the remainder of the season and we look forward to battle this out with Daniel and Lando."
"Daniel has been a great addition to McLaren, and it's been a pleasure working with him," said Zak Brown. "I'd like to thank him for all of his efforts over the last two seasons both trackside and back at base.
"It's no secret that we hoped we could achieve more together but seeing him stand on the top step of the podium as a McLaren driver was a highlight. We wish him well for the future and let's go enjoy the rest of the season together."
Ricciardo subsequently issued his own video on social media.
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