Eight-time grand prix winner Daniel Ricciardo has been axed from his team RB, in what could be the end of his Formula 1 career.
The Australian was officially dropped from the Italian outfit following last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix after months of speculation.
He will be replaced by New Zealand rising star Liam Lawson, who filled in for Ricciardo last season after the Australian broke his wrist.
“I’ve loved this sport my whole life. It’s wild and wonderful and been a journey,” the Australian wrote on social media following the team’s announcement.
“To the teams and individuals that have played their part, thank you. To the fans who love the sport sometimes more than me haha thank you.
“It’ll always have its highs and lows but it’s been fun and truth be told I wouldn’t change it.”
Ricciardo, who made a return to F1 during the middle of last season when the team dumped rookie Nick De Vries, had at times during 2024 been linked with rejoining Red Bull Racing as Max Verstappen’s teammate.
But the Australian, who has also driven for Renault and McLaren, was unable to produce good enough results this season to secure his spot on the grid going forward.
Leading into Singapore the rumour mill was in overdrive that Ricciardo’s job was under threat.
Needing a strong result, the Australian could only manage 16th fastest in qualifying, and 18th in the grand prix.
RB team principal Laurent Mekies praised the Australian as he exited F1 for the second time.
“He has brought a lot of experience and talent to the Team with a fantastic attitude, which has helped everyone to develop and foster a tight team spirit.”
Ricciardo’s time in F1 looked up after the Singapore Grand Prix, with the Australian holding back tears during media engagements and his team giving him a guard of honour.
