After breaking his hand in 2023, Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 career now looks to be in tatters after being sensationally dumped by Red Bull in a shocking mid-season shake-up.
The Australian F1 star, who’s had a rollercoaster ride in the world of motorsport, is being replaced immediately by New Zealand rookie Liam Lawson, leaving fans stunned and asking: is this the end of the road for Ricciardo?
After a disappointing 18th-place finish at last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, Ricciardo’s days were reportedly numbered. Despite flashes of brilliance earlier in the season – like his impressive fourth place at the Miami Sprint – the results just haven’t been there. Red Bull’s top bosses have finally called time on Ricciardo’s run, cutting him loose and handing Lawson the wheel for the final six races of the season.
With 258 races, 8 victories, and 32 podium finishes under his belt, Ricciardo has had a remarkable 14-year career. Looking back on what he called his “wild and wonderful” journey in an emotional Instagram post, Ricciardo seemed to be coming to terms with an uncertain future. With no solid offers for 2025, it’s starting to feel like his days on the F1 grid might be numbered.
Team boss Laurent Mekies tried to soften the blow, calling Ricciardo a “true gentleman” who brought “a fantastic attitude” to the team, but the writing’s been on the wall for months and has been widely reported in the media. And while Red Bull is quick to thank him, fans can’t help but notice how fast they’ve turned their attention to Lawson, who now has a golden opportunity as he faces off against Yuki Tsunoda.
So, where does Ricciardo go from here? With Valtteri Bottas likely holding onto his Sauber/Audi steering wheel, it seems the Aussie’s options are running out fast.
Is this the final chapter for one of F1’s most popular drivers? It’s hard to say, but for now, it’s Lawson who gets his moment in the spotlight while Ricciardo’s future remains up in the air.
Redbull will now be looking to reassert their dominance after their monopoly was eneded in 2023 by Ferrari.
