Daniel Ricciardo’s decision to move to McLaren has proved to be more beneficial for him than expected. The Australian has revealed that the team has plans for him to compete in Supercars or even IndyCar.
Ricciardo is reaping benefits of the competitive package he has received since signing with McLaren, especially after two uneventful seasons with Renault. McLaren’s CEO Zak Brown’s broader ambitions in motorsport seems to fall in line with Ricciardo’s interests.
Brown is a part-owner of motorsport conglomerate Walkinshaw-Andretti United. Through this, Brown hopes to give Ricciardo as many opportunities as he can handle, including an attempt at Supercars if the schedule permits this.
In an interview with GP Racing magazine, Ricciardo disclosed that McLaren is keen on providing him and his teammate Lando Norris opportunities in other racing categories apart from their F1 commitments.
Chaz Mostert and Bryce Fullwood are currently driving for Walkinshaw-Andretti United in the 2021 Supercars series.
“I do have to ask Zak. I need to — even if I don’t do the race — I need to drive a Supercar around Bathurst,” Ricciardo said.
“Whether it’s a private test, or the actual race, I do need to do it. And I think now I have a good opportunity with Zak as a friend and a boss.
“He’s keen to try and get us into the other open-wheelers in the States, the IndyCars. So there’s a lot to do.”
Ricciardo is hoping he will be able to improve his performance in Imola after his F1 debut with McLaren three weeks ago.
Do you think Ricciardo will do better at events other than F1? Let us know in the comments below!
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