The first part of the formula secret revealed, Ricciardo ends up at McLaren. Who will replace him at the team?

It’s still not that long ago that he unexpectedly announced his switch to Fernando Alonso after the Hungarian GP. His departure from Alpine to Aston Martin was quickly but inaccurately resolved by his current employer. Oscar Piastri denied his involvement with Alpine and speculation began about his move to McLaren. And that’s where Daniel Ricciardo is now ending up.

It is the Australian Piastri who is expected to replace his compatriot in the papaya monoposto. Alongside Lando Norris, he should form a young and promising duo that can return the traditional team to the top of Formula 1 once again.

On the other hand, it should be added that Ricciardo is the only McLaren driver in a long time who has managed to win a race. Last year’s race at Monza is on the mind of many a fan of this team. McLaren won a very prestigious double when Norris finished second.

But otherwise, Ricciardo’s performance was nowhere near enough for his teammate, who has already scored a podium in this year’s race. Yet the McLaren is currently only the fifth fastest car on the grid. And the Aussie’s results are not exactly adding much to the team.

As mentioned, Piastri is the main contender for the seat next to Briton Norris. The Australian is a Formula 3 and Formula 2 champion, both titles he won on his debut in the category.

He has been a test driver for Alpine this season, where his contract also states that he is a protégé of the French stable until the end of July. But just after Hungary, Alonso unexpectedly left, Alpine introduced Piastri, who dismissed the announcement on Twitter and the summer break entertainment was taken care of.

Whether Piastri will indeed be the one to take the cockpit of McLaren, we’ll probably have to wait a while to find out. But all indications are pointing in that direction.

After all, this young talent deserves a chance in any car. The question remains where Ricciardo, who is currently being linked with either a return to Alpine or, for example, a seat at Haas, will end up.

Source: McLaren F1