When 25-year-old Daniel Ricciardo joined Red Bull in 2014, many expected him to win a world championship in the future. However, his departure from Red Bull in 2019 raised eyebrows as he left a team contending for the championship.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
Although the Australian plays at McLaren, a team on the rise, his struggles weigh on his season. Ahead of the French Grand Prix, Ricciardo admits why he left Red Bull after a disappointing 2018 season.
Daniel Ricciardo admits he is leaving Red Bull fearing he is “complacent”
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
With just 26 points from the first six races, Ricciardo has had a disappointing start to life at McLaren, the fifth team in his F1 career. His struggles often raise questions about why he left Red Bull 2 years ago.
The Australian shocked fans around the world when he announced his departure from the Austrian team after the 2018 season. Although he switched to Renault (now Alpine F1), Red Bull was and is one of the top teams in F1.
Ricciardo recently revealed the reason for his departure after five seasons with the Austrian team. He admitted that the fear of being too comfortable around himself was a main reason for leaving Red Bull.
The 31-year-old said: “In a way, I left Red Bull because I was afraid of getting complacent. I was so comfortable on the team and familiar with everyone, and I was worried that I might be missing things.
“You are definitely out of your comfort zone when you join a new team.”
DIVE DEEPER
Ricciardo believes he will be a “more complete driver” at McLaren
Although Ricciardo came to McLaren with a good reputation, his first six races did not go quite as he had hoped. Despite his struggles, Ricciardo believes he’ll get better with McLaren sooner rather than later.
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
Formula 1 F1 – Formula 1 – Azerbaijan Grand Prix – Baku City Circuit, Baku, Azerbaijan – June 3, 2021 McLarens Daniel Ricciardo during the press conference pool about REUTERS / Clive Rose
The Australian said: “It takes a little more work and a little more energy but I feel like it should pay off in time – and I am obviously committed to McLaren for the next few years. Six months or twelve months, I should be a more complete driver. I feel very comfortable in the team, we all have a good relationship. “
With the French Grand Prix approaching, Ricciardo hopes that he can start his way back into shape with a good performance at Le Castellet. Can the honey badger regain its old shape on June 20th?
ADVERTISING
Article continues under this ad
WATCH HISTORY: When F1 drivers with Hamilton, Vettel & Ricciardo had a lot of fun on top equipment
The post Ricciardo reveals the main reason to leave Red Bull after the 2018 F1 season first appeared on monter-une-startup.
