Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed his profession has gone full circle with a return to Purple Bull Racing in 2023.
The 33-year-old Aussie star would be the reserve driver for the world champion group behind world champ Max Verstappen and teammate Sergio Perez, returning to the group the place he made his title.
The transfer had been broadly speculated in latest weeks and even Purple Bull’s official announcement confirmed the “worst saved secret” un the game.
“The smile says all of it, I’m really excited to be coming again residence to Oracle Purple Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023,” Ricciardo mentioned.
“I have already got so many fond reminiscences of my time right here, however the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and your complete group is one thing I’m sincerely appreciative of.
“For me personally, the power to contribute to and be surrounded by the perfect group in F1 is vastly interesting, while additionally giving me a while to recharge and refocus.
“I can’t wait to be with the group and assist with simulator work, testing classes and industrial actions. Let’s go!”
Ricciardo’s return comes after much less profitable stints with Renault and McLaren in latest seasons and he’s again at a group the place his reputation soared, the place he gained races and his smile endeared him to followers worldwide.
His function now will contain “testing, sim work and industrial exercise” with Ricciardo set to attend some, not all, F1 occasions on the 2023 calendar however he’s more likely to be in Melbourne.
Group principal Christian Horner mentioned Ricciardo’s return would make the perfect group in pit lane even stronger.
“It’s nice to convey Daniel again in to the Purple Bull household,” Horner mentioned.
“He has huge expertise and such an excellent character; I do know the entire manufacturing facility is worked up to be welcoming him residence.
“In his function as take a look at and third driver, Daniel will give us the prospect to diversify, aiding within the improvement of the automobile, aiding the group together with his expertise and information of what it takes to achieve F1.
“We’re more than happy to be working with Daniel once more and look ahead to every part he’ll convey to the Group in 2023.”
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