Netflix has revealed the episode titles for Formula 1: Drive To Survive season 5, and let’s just say they’re essentially dancing on the grave of Daniel Ricciardo. Possibly in retaliation for a previous comment he made about the streaming giant.
Positioned to be the focus of the seventh episode, Netflix’s preview posted on the official F1 Instagram account depicted a smiling Honey Badger adorned in McLaren papaya with the text: ‘Nice Guys Finish Last.’
Understandably, the fans had some thoughts about this. But like the good-natured larrikin he is, Ricciardo decided to take the wound salting in stride.
“At least I’m a good bloke,” commented Danny Ric with a laughing emoji.
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This year, the 33-year-old Aussie motorsport talent is being re-welcomed into the fold as Red Bull Racing’s reserve drive, supporting reigning two-time grid king Max Verstappen and Mexico’s Minister of Defence Sergio Perez.
“The smile says it all. I’m truly excited to be coming back home to Oracle Red Bull Racing as their third driver in 2023,” said Daniel Ricciardo.
“I already have so many fond memories of my time here, but the welcome from [Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner], [Red Bull Head of Development Dr Helmut Marko], and the entire team is something I’m sincerely appreciative of.”
“For me personally, the ability to contribute to and be surrounded by the best team in F1 is hugely appealing, whilst also giving me some time to recharge and refocus. I can’t wait to be with the team and support with simulator work, testing sessions and commercial activities. Let’s go!”
Daniel Ricciardo first entered the Red Bull Racing family through its junior squad Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2012. Within the span of two seasons, he’d be promoted to run with the big boys, partnering with the now-retired four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel before Verstappen was introduced to the picture.
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Across his seven-year tenure as a Red Bull/Toro Rosso driver, The Honey Badger racked up seven race wins, 29 podiums, 986 points, as well as three pole positions. And Horner clearly hasn’t forgotten about the bloke’s piloting capabilities.
“It is great to bring Daniel back into the Red Bull family. He has enormous talent and such a brilliant character; I know the whole factory is excited to be welcoming him home,” said Christian Horner.
Horner added: “In his role as test and third driver, Daniel will give us the chance to diversify, assisting in the development of the car, aiding the team with his experience and knowledge of what it takes to succeed in F1.”
“We’re very pleased to be working with Daniel again and look forward to everything he will bring to the team in 2023.”
Formula 1: Drive To Survive featuring Daniel Ricciardo (and plenty more) is scheduled to premiere exactly a week from today on February 24th, 2023. Check out the rest of the episode titles and the trailer below…
- Episode 1: ‘The New Dawn’ (Ferrari)
- Episode 2: ‘Bounce Back’ (Mercedes)
- Episode 3: ‘Like Father, Like Son’ (Haas)
- Episode 4: ‘A Matter of Principal’ (Ferrari again? Potentially various)
- Episode 5: ‘Hot Seat’ (Red Bull)
- Episode 6: ‘Pardon My French’ (Alpine; potentially about the Fernando Alonso-Oscar Piastri fiasco)
- Episode 7: ‘Nice Guys Finish Last’ (McLaren/Daniel Ricciardo)
- Episode 8: ‘Alpha Male’ (AlphaTauri)
- Episode 9: ‘Over The Limit’ (Red Bull/Budget cap fiasco)
- Episode 10: ‘End Of The Road’
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