Ricciardo does not change plan due to Hamilton's announcement

Ricciardo has not found a permanent seat in Formula 1 for 2023 and would reportedly opt to take on a reserve role at Mercedes. Through that role, the 33-year-old driver would then hope to secure a permanent seat at a top team in 2024. The most logical choice in that regard seemed to be Mercedes, but that will be a lot more difficult.

Ricciardo out of Formula 1

Indeed, Hamilton has announced that he wants to extend his contract expiring at the end of 2023 and is even considering a multi-year deal with Mercedes. George Russell is also on a long-term contract and is Mercedes' former junior. Ricciardo's chances at Mercedes therefore do not seem too good for 2024.

''The truth is I want him to stay in the sport. He's one of the greatest ever to do it and I think competing with him, going wheel to wheel with him is fun, it's awesome, it's normally at the pointy end so I certainly wish to do that more in the future. And that's where it currently lies,'' said Ricciardo ahead of the United States Grand Prix.

''So I think my future will be, let's say, I don't think it's relative to what others do. I think it's, how do I say it, like opportunities will arise when they do, but I'm not banking on anyone doing something so I can find my way. I want to take the time necessary, let's say, keep a little bit of distance to the sport and let's say rebuild myself, but then yeah, if something makes sense in ‘24, come back with a vengeance and have some fun and hopefully race at the front,'' the McLaren driver concludes.