Mental Health Advocate Toto Wolff Came to Daniel Ricciardo’s Defense After “Burnout” Syndrome Revelation

The quote, getting to the top is not so easy, but staying there is harder, perfectly describes Formula 1. Surviving in the top class is not for the faint of heart. However, long-term survivors are still under tremendous pressure. For example, Daniel Ricciardo and his stint at McLaren after which the Australian felt the symptoms of burnout. A serious situation if you ask the head of Mercedes Toto Wolff.

The Austrian CEO and CEO of Mercedes has always been an advocate for mental health. When Ricciardo admitted he was feeling the symptoms of burnout syndrome, Wolff spoke out to raise awareness of the mental health condition. Not just awareness, but the Austrian defended Ricciardo because a condition such as exhaustion is common in an environment like Formula 1.

“Burnout” is a name for a mental health problem, whether it’s anxiety, depression, or just completely draining your emotional, physical, or mental power. It can happen and, of course, it will affect your professional life, but also your private life.”Wolff said, on the Beyond The Grid podcast.

The Mercedes boss also conveyed his bewilderment with Ricciardo’s performance at McLaren. he said, “Daniel is a great person. I still believe he is a great racing driver. Whatever happens at McLaren is pretty hard to understand, but it doesn’t teach how to drive. It remains a mystery.”

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However, Ricciardo’s misery is over and he admitted he was happy at the Red Bull reunion. A reunion that came as a surprise as Ricciardo had been heavily linked with a back-up role in the Mercedes. However, that was never a possibility.

Toto Wolff has admitted that Daniel Ricciardo at Mercedes was never a real possibility

Long before Ricciardo was anywhere on Red Bull’s radar, the Australian was linked with a move to Mercedes. However, according to Toto Wolff, it was never a serious possibility despite the discussions.

“We discussed the options with him, but it never got to the point where we said, ‘OK, let’s seriously consider going down this road.’ he revealed.

Watch this story: Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 highlights

In the end, we can agree that all parties are satisfied with their respective decisions, especially Ricciardo. The Australian could take a much-needed break from selective participation and look to return to the grid in 2024.