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 | Mika Hakkinen on Ricciardo`s chances of returning to F1:He is in a very difficult situation. Teams like McLaren need a winner23-08-2024 |
Mika Hakkinen assessed the likelihood of Daniel Ricciardo returning to Formula 1.
The Australian left McLaren and took the position of third driver for Red Bull.
I retired from Formula 1 in 2001. I was a two-time world champion, I had the opportunity to take a year off. Unfortunately, he leaves Formula 1 when he was kicked out.
If you want to come back after a year off, how can you prove that you have improved? How to demonstrate that you are faster than ever? There are young people, newcomers are coming to Formula 1. Can you prove that you are faster?
I have to apologize - this sounds very negative. But this is the reality. He`s in a very difficult situation. However, I think everyone in the paddock loves him. He is a very good person with a great sense of humor. The fans like him. But, unfortunately, teams like McLaren need a winner, ” said the two-time F1 champion.
Hakkinen noted that victories in the Grand Prix achieved in previous seasons are unlikely to help Ricciardo:
There is always someone to compare with. And the comparison with Lando [Norris] was unfortunate. One or two tenths [of the gap] – you can live with that. If the gap is larger, it`s bad news for the car`s development. We need to modify the car differently, and this will not benefit the team.
Mika also explained why Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso managed to return after leaving F1:
It`s easier for them because it was their decision. They are world champions - a very simple answer. Sounds terrible! There is a feeling that I am saying very unpleasant things. This is the reality. This business gives no mercy.
Mika Hakkinen on Ricciardo`s chances of returning to F1:He is in a very difficult situation. Teams like McLaren need a winner