Daniel Ricciardo believes Fernando Alonso is a number one instance that skilled drivers can seal an F1 comeback after dropping off the grid – as he plots his personal 2024 return. Ricciardo is not going to be on the grid in 2023 after preferring to turn out to be reserve driver at Purple Bull over a transfer to a midfield outfit.
The Australian was left pondering his future after being dropped by McLaren for compatriot Oscar Piastri and concluded {that a} return to Purple Bull to turn out to be the title-winning group’s third driver would finally give him the perfect probability to drive a race-winning automotive sooner or later.
However whereas Ricciardo has ambitions so as to add to his eight grand prix wins, there aren’t any ensures of a right away return to the paddock in a sport that may be so precarious and unforgiving.
Nevertheless, the 33-year-old takes consolation within the likes of Alonso, Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen being afforded alternatives to make their F1 comeback after time away from the grid.
JUST IN: Lando Norris has advised McLaren chief Zak Brown his future plans amid Purple Bull curiosity
And Alonso, the oldest driver on the grid, is proof that the door is rarely fully closed on a proficient driver’s F1 profession. The 41-year-old returned to Alpine in 2021 after two years away and has now changed Sebastian Vettel at Aston Martin.
“We’re all wired in another way, and the 12 months off might have a special impact on all of us, however truly I have a look at Alonso, for instance, somebody who loves racing on a regular basis, and him having that point off and coming again,” Ricciardo added.
“I really feel like for me to actually take away myself a bit greater than perhaps what he would have finished will likely be much more highly effective for me personally and what I really feel I profit from. Lengthy story quick, that type of stuff encourages me. It’s the icing on the cake when it comes to me feeling like I’ve finished the best factor.”