Daniel Ricciardo has clarified comments he made at the Mexican Grand Prix, where he suggested there was “no point” in him participating in the final two races of 2018.
Ricciardo scored pole position in Mexico and while his win hopes were dashed through a poor getaway, he was on course for the runner-up spot when his Red Bull RB14 failed with 10 laps to go.
It marked his second retirement in as many weekends and the sixth occasion in 2018 that he had been unable to reach the chequered flag due to a mechanical problem.
A dejected Ricciardo quipped afterwards that his car was “cursed” and that he might as well hand it over to 2019 Red Bull driver Pierre Gasly for the remaining events.
Red Bull boss Christian Horner sympathised with Ricciardo’s plight following the conclusion of a Grand Prix that team-mate Max Verstappen went on to win.
Ricciardo has since taken to social media to clarify his comments, stressing that he has “two more cracks” to sign off from Red Bull on a high before he switches to Renault for 2019.
“What’s going on social world. just wanted to say ‘G’day’ and firstly address a few things from Mexico,” he said.
“First ones first I will be doing the last two races, it’s what I’m about, I ain’t about the other life
“It’s been obviously massive highs and lows this year, more lows unfortunately.
“It’s been frustrating, I won’t lie.
“I owe it to myself and to all the guys that work their butts off to give it two more cracks before we see each other off.
“I will be there [in Brazil and Abu Dhabi]. I just needed a few days off really, feels good.”
Ricciardo’s exit from the Mexican Grand Prix means he is guaranteed to finish sixth in this year’s Drivers’ Championship.
