Daniel Ricciardo and his storied Formula 1 career is expected to conclude after today’s Singapore Grand Prix where he took home the Driver of the Day Fan Vote. The Red Bull driver, who has enjoyed a 13-year run in the sport with eight grand prix victories, is reportedly set to be replaced by Liam Lawson ahead of the next race in the United States.
Final Laps for Daniel Ricciardo in F1?
Speculation around Ricciardo’s future has been swirling for weeks, and today’s race could mark his final outing in Formula 1. Sky Sports’ Simon Lazenby hinted that Ricciardo seems aware of his fate.
“I get the impression from the demeanour that he knows it’s coming,” Lazenby said.
Fellow commentator David Croft added: “I think he does. I think conversations have been had behind closed doors. We’ll know more by the middle of next week.”
Croft expressed disappointment that Ricciardo might not be able to finish his career on a high note.
“I think it’s a shame. He’ll still be in their pool of drivers with a chance for next year. But it’s a shame he can’t go out on a high, if this is the end, in Abu Dhabi.”
Liam Lawson Replacement Speculation
Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko recently confirmed that an official decision regarding Ricciardo’s seat will be announced before the upcoming United States Grand Prix.
Lawson, who filled in for an injured Ricciardo in 2023 and impressed during his five-race stint, could potentially leave Red Bull if he isn’t promoted to a full-time seat by 2025. PlanetF1.com reports that a clause in Lawson’s contract would allow him to depart the team if not given a permanent role.
Marko has also hinted that Red Bull’s option to promote the 22-year-old New Zealander expires this month. “He will definitely be in one of our cars next year,” Marko recently said, fueling speculation that a change could come as early as the United States GP.
Rumors are growing that Lawson could take over Ricciardo’s seat for the remainder of the 2024 season, with Marko previously expressing his desire to see Lawson compete in a few grands prix this year.
A Career of Highlights
Ricciardo’s F1 career has been marked by spectacular drives and memorable moments. Croft reminisced about the Australian driver’s career, recalling his first grand prix victory in Canada.
“I remember watching a replay of his first race win in Canada. He was grinning and I had a tear in my eye,” Croft shared. “He has given us magic moments and he’s a fine driver.”
Despite his success, Ricciardo’s career took a downturn after he left Red Bull for Renault, a move that ultimately did not yield the results he had hoped for. He later joined McLaren, where he was dropped at the end of 2022.
The End of an Era for Daniel Ricciardo?
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