Red Bull F1 third driver Daniel Ricciardo has said he was “no problem” about missing the opportunity to drive the Red Bull RB7 at this weekend’s Bathurst 12 Hours race. It was Red Bull F1 junior driver Liam Lawson at the wheel of the Red Bull RB7 at Mount Panorama during the Bathurst 12 Hours race weekend.
Daniel Ricciardo, meanwhile, was a cornerstone of Red Bull Racing’s 2023 season presentation in New York. Asked if he was disappointed that he missed the opportunity to run a Formula 1 car at Bathurst, Ricciardo replied: “No problem.” “I think[the Bathurst demonstration run]is too serious for me right now because it’s still kind of like holiday mode,” he said. He continues to have a desire to run on Australia’s iconic racetrack. This has been something he’s made public in the past, and he even wants to take part in the Bathurst 12 Hours if given the chance. “I went there a long time ago, when I was a kid, in a rental car,” commented Daniel Ricciardo. “I’ve never been to a real event, but I’ll be there someday. I’d love to drive around there one day, even if it’s not competitive,” said Daniel Ricciardo. Since the final race of the 2022 F1 season, it has remained relatively low-key. He signed a deal to become Red Bull’s third driver on Sunday morning at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with the announcement coming just days after. Since then, Daniel Ricciardo has been away from the stress of F1 and spending time with his friends and family. “I still think it’s a day-by-day thing,” said Daniel Ricciardo of his thoughts on F1. “I try not to stress too much and I need to know how I feel until March 1st.” “I want to be natural in a way.” It feels kind of cool, but I’m also really happy to have had this year, and at least where I’m sitting right now, it feels really right.”Daniel Ricciardo said in the coming weeks. He will return to work soon and will be in charge of simulator work for Red Bull race drivers Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez for the 2023 season. He also has a promotional activity planned and will test the tires early next year to ensure they remain race-fit. “My vacation is coming to an end. I feel like I’ve had enough,” commented Daniel Ricciardo. “I’m going to the Super Bowl next weekend, and then I’m going to get back in shape a bit and get back to training and stuff,” he said. I don’t think it’s necessary.” “Of course I need to be sharp so that if I suddenly jump into the car it’s okay. I’m not 20 kilos overweight and I feel pretty good right now. I don’t think you’re fat.”