
Reigning constructors’ champions Red Bull have confirmed that eight-time F1 winner and former driver Daniel Ricciardo will be their test and reserve driver next year, returning to the team he left at the end of 2018.
Red Bull have confirmed that Ricciardo will ‘come home’ to become their third driver for 2023, bringing ‘a wealth of experience and character’ to assist the team in testing, simulator work and commercial activities.
The Australian left Red Bull at the end of 2018 after five seasons in the Red Bull team to drive for Renault in 2019 and 2020, moving to McLaren in 2021 where he had two disappointing seasons alongside Norris.
Ricciardo made his Formula 1 debut in 2011 with the HRT team, and in 2012 became a regular driver for Toro Rosso where he spent two seasons before moving to the main team in 2014 after Webber retired from Formula 1.
In 2014, the Australian impressed in his new team, beating teammate Vettel, who was then the current and four-time world champion, winning three races and finishing third in the standings behind the two Mercedes drivers Hamilton and Rosberg, and he repeated the feat by finishing third in the standings in 2016.
“It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family,” said Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing Team Principal.
“He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character; I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home. In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the Team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1.”
“We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the Team in 2023.”
“The smile says it all, I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their Third Driver in 2023,” said Ricciardo.
“I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from Christian, Dr Marko and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of.”
“For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus.”
“I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”