Ricciardo returns to F1 with Alpha Tauri

Daniel Riccardo is going to be back racing in Formula 1

Daniel Ricciardo has made a surprising return to Formula 1 after joining Red Bull's sister team Alpha Tauri for the rest of the season.

He replaces Nyck de Vries, who has been dropped after only 10 races.

Ricciardo, who won eight grands prix, has been at Red Bull as a reserve driver this season.

Dutch rookie De Vries, 28, has been dropped after failing to pick up a single point as well as having several crashes.

Ricciardo took part in a tyre test for Red Bull at Silverstone on Tuesday, two days after De Vries had finished last in the British Grand Prix.

"I'm stoked to be back on track with the Red Bull family," said Ricciardo.

Alpha Tauri team principal Franz Tost said: "I'm very pleased to welcome Daniel back into the team.

"There's no doubt about his driving skill, and he already knows many of us, so his integration will be easy and straightforward.

"The team will also profit a lot from his experience, as he is an eight-time Formula One grand prix winner.

"I would like to thank Nyck for his valuable contribution during his time with Scuderia Alpha Tauri, and I wish him all the best for the future."

• Pre-season testing schedule & 2023 car launches

More to follow.