Ricciardo message reaffirming F1 future “wasn’t a surprise” to McLaren

Ricciardo’s F1 future has been subject to significant speculation in recent weeks after a difficult start to the 2022 season with McLaren.

The Australian has struggled to match team-mate Lando Norris’s form, scoring 17 out of McLaren’s 81 points so far this season and recording just three top-10 finishes.

Ricciardo has a contract in place until the end of the 2023 season, but comments made in May by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown about “mechanisms” within the agreement that could pave the way for a split only fuelled speculation.

Last week, Ricciardo took to social media to issue a statement reaffirming his commitment to race with McLaren in F1 next year after suggestions a number of drivers could replace him. 

Asked about Ricciardo’s message, McLaren F1 chief Seidl said it came as no surprise and it simply echoed the team’s own message about their focus on working together.

“From our point of view, there was never any speculation required,” Seidl said.

“We have been clear from our side that we have a contract in place, and our sole focus is together with Daniel on finding these last percentages in terms of performance.

“That is what we are focusing on. The statement wasn’t a surprise, it was just confirming where we both are together, which is in line with what we say for several months.

“So, no surprises.”

Ricciardo explained on Thursday that he wanted the rumours to be addressed “from the horse’s mouth” and his belief remains as strong as ever that he can still compete at the very top of F1. 

Among the drivers linked with his seat in recent months are IndyCar duo Colton Herta and Pato O’Ward, both of whom have tested F1 machinery for McLaren.

Herta completed a two-day test at Portimao last week in McLaren’s 2021 car as part of its test programme, which has also afforded running to F2 racer Jehan Daruvala and sim driver Will Stevens.

Seidl said the primary purpose of the running for drivers was to see who could fulfil the requirement to run a rookie in at least two free practice sessions this year.

“In order to comply with the regulations there, you need to find the right guys, and you need to give these guys also the chance to be properly prepared, to make sure that actually they can show what they are able to do,” said Seidl.

“The interest on my side is also quite high to make sure they are properly prepared, because they…