Daniel Ricciardo to return to Red Bull as reserve driver

Daniel Ricciardo will remain in the Formula 1 paddock as reserve driver for Red Bull in 2023, according to reports.

Daniel Ricciardo and Red Bull team boss Christian Horner at the United States grand prix. (Getty Images/Red Bull Content Pool)

Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko told Sky Germany on Friday "Ricciardo will be our third driver."

ESPN reports the move has been confirmed, with the full announcement to come on Sunday.

Ricciardo was left without a drive for 2023 when McLaren replaced him with fellow Australian Oscar Piastri.

He began his career at Red Bull before moving to Renault, and then McLaren.

"Mentally, I'm not treating it like it's going to be my last ever race," said a positive Ricciardo ahead of Sunday's Abu Dhabi grand prix.

"But it could be, like, I know that nothing's guaranteed in the future."

"So, I'm just kind of going out to enjoy it."

"I'm not going to get too emotional about the thought of ‘oh is it the last one or not’."

"But I do want to enjoy it and just take it for what it is."

The Australian denied that a deal had been confirmed for next year.

"Not yet."

"I mean, I say progress, yes."

"But still, nothing's confirmed."

"But progress is being made."

"So, we'll see."

"Hopefully, you can see my good looks again next year, to some degree."

Ricciardo has also been linked to potential broadcasting roles for 2023 with interest from ESPN in capitalising on the Australian's popularity.

Should he continue with Red Bull, he could occupy a role similar to David Coulthard, who remains an ambassador for the team alongside his commentary duties for UK broadcaster Channel 4.

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