Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren to part ways

Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren will part ways at the conclusion of the 2022 Formula 1 season.

McLaren had already informed the Australian that it planned to terminate his contract one year before it expired. Now, it's official.

"It's been a privilege to be a part of the McLaren Racing family for the last two seasons but following several months of discussions we have decided to terminate my contract with the team and agree to mutually part ways at the end of this season," Ricciardo said.

pic.twitter.com/ZrPvJy7tB5

— Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo) August 24, 2022

The move paves the way for McLaren to replace Ricciardo with fellow Aussie Oscar Piastri, pending a decision on a contract battle between McLaren and Alpine.

Piastri, the reigning Formula 2 champion, turned town a seat with Alpine after Fernando Alonso announced a move to Aston Martin. However, Alpine believes the 21-year-old Piastri is contractually obligated to drive for the team next year.

Ricciardo, 33, has eight career wins in F1, most recently at the Italian Grand Prix on Sept 12 2021.

Ricciardo has nine races remaining for McLaren, beginning with this week's Belgian Grand Prix.

"We wish him well for the future and let's go enjoy the rest of the season together," McLaren CEO Zak Brown said.

His team-mate Lando Norris, who he originally had a frosty relationship with, took to social media to wish him the best “What a ride Daniel Ricciardo, from that moment in Monza, to the laughs we’ve had out of the car, it’s been a joy working with you these last two years. Whatever’s next I wish you all the best, let’s have a mega next few months.”

According to multiple reports Haas boss Guenther Steiner is said to be interested in Ricciardo and made contact with him ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix.