The “silly season” in Formula 1 traditionally only begins in the summer. But this year, after just a few races, the rumor mill is boiling hot. There is speculation, among other things, about a driver swap that would have it all.
The contract situation is as clear for few current Formula 1 drivers as it is for AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly. The Frenchman is under contract with Red Bull until the end of 2023 and will leave the racing team after the coming season at the latest, unless he is promoted back to the A-Team next year. Both Gasly and Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko indicated this earlier this year.
According to the English media, however, another option could open up for the French after the 2022 season: a move to McLaren. The “Daily Star” writes, among other things, that this is already being discussed in the grid.
In this case, Daniel Ricciardo would have to make way for Gasly. Since Lando Norris only extended his contract again this year, the Briton has secured his place with the traditional English team. Ricciardo’s contract, on the other hand, also expires in 2023. In theory, it would be on the market at the same time as Pierre Gasly.
Since they should only be partially satisfied with the Australian’s performance at McLaren, a Ricciardo-Gasly swap could even be an option after the current season, it is said.
Does Ricciardo’s Red Bull past help?
In this case, McLaren would not only get a driver six years younger, but also a driver who is significantly cheaper to maintain. According to consistent reports, Ricciardo earns around 15 million euros per season, while Gasly collects only five million euros.
Ricciardo’s good relationship with Red Bull could make the deal easier. The 32-year-old started his Formula 1 career eleven years ago with the Red Bulls and still enjoys a good reputation there.
However, the Australian only fits into the prey scheme of the Austrians to a limited extent. Red Bull traditionally uses the B-Team to give young drivers a chance. And Daniel Ricciardo has not been in this category for several years.