After weeks of delay and deliberation, McLaren and Daniel Ricciardo confirmed the unfortunate contract termination news. The Woking team informed the Australian of their decision right after the Hungarian GP before the summer break. However, the news comes right towards the end of the month-long summer break ahead of the Belgian GP.

Daniel Ricciardo first broke the news on his Instagram account with a statement of discontent, but with a will to continue. Following Ricciardo’s statement, a host of drivers shared messages of support through different mediums. One such driver, who also shared his feelings about Ricciardo’s situation, is Sebastian Vettel.

The retiring German used the perfect platform, the Thursday press conference, to share his thoughts. Sebastian Vettel said, “Very saddened by hearing what’s going to happen to Daniel.”

“I had the pleasure to race against him and the not-so-pleasurable side of getting beaten by him years ago. And I still think he still has very very much to offer.”

“I don’t know the details, but I guess McLaren failed to extract the potential that he has. It’s sad to see that he’s been put in a difficult position, but I wish him all the best,” concluded the Aston Martin man.

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The McLaren man beat Vettel when they both were teammates at Red Bull in 2014, a year after the German won his fourth world championship. This was no mean feat for a driver in the third year of his Formula 1 career. Hence, it could be the reason Vettel mentioned Ricciardo’s talent and exceptional qualities will help him shine through this difficult phase.

Another world champion matched Sebastian Vettel’s feelings about Daniel Ricciardo

Lewis Hamilton also echoed Vettel’s feelings towards Ricciardo’s situation. The seven-time F1 world champion also used the time ahead of the Belgian GP to share his thoughts.

Hamilton said, “It’s really unfortunate for Daniel but I really, really hope but I still think he deserves a place in the sport so I really hope there’s somewhere great for him because he’s still got lots to achieve.”

The words being spoken in favor of Daniel Ricciardo give one an idea of the Australian’s qualities, despite his treatment. Hopefully, the time at McLaren won’t spell an end for Ricciardo’s F1 career. Can the Honey Badger showcase his talents elsewhere in 2023?

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