With expectations of returning to the grid in 2024, Daniel Ricciardo joins Red Bull as a third driver for the 2023 season. David Coulthard, a former F1 racer, believes that the Australian has to “rebuild” in order for it to happen.

David Coulthard has cautioned that if Daniel Ricciardo doesn’t “rebuild” at Red Bull, his Formula One career could be ended.

After McLaren decided to cancel Ricciardo’s multi-year deal early, the squad decided to replace him with youngster Oscar Piastri, leaving Ricciardo without a spot on the track for 2023.

Later, in November, it was made official that the Australian would rejoin Red Bull as a backup racer for the coming season.

Ricciardo won seven of his eight Formula 1 races when previously employed with the team, along with a number of podiums and point-scoring positions.

He quit the team at the end of 2018 to drive for Renault, where he competed for two years before starting his challenging time at McLaren in 2021.

In order to increase his prospects of a successful F1 comeback in the future, Coulthard thinks it’s critical for Ricciardo to recapture the mindset he had during his victorious days at Red Bull.

Coulthard assesses Ricciardo’s prospects of making a comeback

Coulthard told the BBC, “Daniel, not being where we knew he could be – he just didn’t look like Daniel of old – so this is about him trying to rebuild.”

“He has a great legacy with Red Bull and he left to go off and try and make it big elsewhere, that didn’t work so he has come back to the family.

“If he can get his mind back to what is was when he was having success, then Daniel has to have an opportunity to come back.

“If this opportunity doesn’t manifest itself then that’s probably his Grand Prix career wrapped up.”

Not just Coulthard has offered his perspective on Ricciardo’s prospects as a racer. Rejoining Red Bull, according to Mark Webber, may be a “wonderful opportunity” for his compatriot to rediscover his passion.

As part of his responsibilities, Ricciardo will assist the team with simulator and testing work as well as engage in commercial activities.

We bring out some of the most well-known FORMULA 1 drivers’ apparels, all of which are available at reasonable costs. Visit our link now if you are interested in the racing clothing collection!

F1, F1 2023, FIA, Formula 1, Grand Prix, Red Bull, Red Bull Racing, Daniel Ricciardo, David Coulthard, McLaren