Daniel Ricciardo Fans Livid With How Red Bull Is Treating Driver
As Red Bull's reserve driver Daniel Ricciardo plays a major role in the team's marketing campaigns. However, many fans and experts are questioning whether the former eight-time race winner should be doing more than just promoting the team.
Since Ricciardo's appointment as the Red Bull reserve driver, many fans have been calling for the Austrian team to replace Sergio Perez to drive alongside two-time champion Max Verstappen. However, the team have denied any such plans.
While Ricciardo has already featured in a number of Red Bull TikTok videos, the team has stated that his role for the upcoming season will primarily focus on marketing campaigns. The Australian's immense popularity in North America is seen as a key asset for Red Bull.
Despite his limited involvement in actual racing, Ricciardo has been clear that being back at Red Bull is where he believes he can rediscover his love for Formula 1. During his first stint with the team from 2014-2018, the Australian claimed seven victories and finished third in the drivers' championship twice.
Despite the team's clear intention to focus on marketing, Ricciardo's talent and desire to race should not be underestimated. The Australian's time at McLaren may have been disappointing, but his potential as a top-level driver remains undeniable.
Missed Apex podcast host, Alex Vangeen, has posted to social media:
"This is what @danielricciardo has been reduced to. He’s too talented to be doing this s**t! Far more talented than Perez. At least when Dan was at Red Bull he could give max a run for his money. @redbullracing do the right thing & put him in the car"