Daniel Ricciardo has said that he has come to terms with the potential for him not being on the grid next season in Formula 1, with his future still very much uncertain for 2023.

Whilst it's now been confirmed that the Aussie will not be driving for McLaren next year after a disappointing spell with the team, it is not yet clear what the future lies for him past the end of the season.

In terms of motorsport participation, Ricciardo has said that he wants to be in Formula 1 and Formula 1 alone next year but that is where the clarity stops, with him linked to several moves but currently seemingly not on the verge, or being anywhere near to that, of signing a deal.

Indeed, both Haas and Alpine have been touted as potential options, as well as even a Mercedes reserve driver role but, as yet, Ricciardo has nothing lined up for '23 and if that remains the case he says that he is fine with that, and accepted that that could be his reality.

Speaking after the Italian Grand Prix which saw a late mechanical issue rob him of a points-scoring finish, the former Red Bull and Renault driver said:

“I’ve certainly accepted that if I’m not to be on the grid next year, I’m okay with that.

“I’ve accepted that I’m not going to do everything, or my team’s not going to do everything, just to put me on the grid if it’s not right or it doesn’t make sense.

Daniel Ricciardo driving at Monza

MONZA, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 09: Daniel Ricciardo of Australia driving the (3) McLaren MCL36 Mercedes on track during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Italy at Autodromo Nazionale Monza on September 09, 2022 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

“Obviously this year’s been challenging and if I am on the grid I want to know that it’s a place that I can enjoy it and feel like I can thrive. I don’t want to just jump into a car for the sake of it.”

Daniel Ricciardo's next move

Ricciardo makes a fair enough point and it may stem off of what has happened at McLaren.

After a tough couple of years there, he needs to be in a car that is going to lend itself to his driving style so he can get back to doing what he does best; racing and pulling off great overtakes.

We've seen a shadow of the former Ricciardo in the last couple of years and it's clear he only wants to go somewhere that will really rejuvenate him, rather than a spot that will just see him continue to make up the numbers.