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On Thursday afternoon, Red Bull and their sister team RB shared a post on social media to thank Daniel Ricciardo for his long-time partnership.
Before the race weekend in Singapore, there were rumors that it might be Ricciardo’s last race. Although he initially said he didn’t know anything, an emotional interview after the race suggested he was aware it could be his final race in Formula 1. His best finish this season was eighth place in Canada, and he earned a total of 12 points, while his teammate Yuki Tsunoda got 22. Because of these results, Red Bull decided to end their collaboration with Ricciardo six races before the season ended.
It could be sensed that Daniel Ricciardo's story in F1 might soon come to an end, as he hasn't met the expectations of Red Bull fans and leaders. Despite his experience, the Australian seems to be reaching the conclusion of his time in Formula 1.
Team principal Laurent Mekies mentioned that Ricciardo would always have a special place in the team. In response, Ricciardo expressed his love for the sport and gratitude toward the teams, individuals, and fans.
With only one seat available for next season likely going to Valtteri Bottas, Ricciardo might be without a seat for 2025. He mentioned trying to enjoy the race and feeling proud of his career.
For the remaining six races, Red Bull is bringing back young New Zealander Liam Lawson, who drove for them last season when Ricciardo was injured. Lawson scored his first points in Singapore.
Mekies welcomed Lawson back and said it would be a smooth transition. The futures of both Lawson and Sergio Perez in the team are still uncertain, and Red Bull will make a final decision in the coming races.
Mekies on Daniel Ricciardo
Mekies thanked Ricciardo in a media interview for his hard work and commitment to helping the team improve. However, it became clear at times that the Australian's story with the team was coming to an end. Mekies acknowledged that having someone like Ricciardo brought a lot to the team, and there were expectations that he would support the younger drivers with his attitude. While Mekies knew Ricciardo could be very valuable, it was evident that the time had come for them to part ways.
"Everyone here at VCARB would like to thank Daniel for his hard work across the last two seasons with us. 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. Daniel has been a true gentleman both on and off the track and never without that smile. He will be missed, but will alwayshold a special place within the Red Bull family," Mekies said of Ricciardo, as quoted by GP blog.
Mekies reacts to Liam Lawson's arrival
Mekies expressed his excitement about welcoming Liam back. He mentioned that Liam is already familiar with the team because he raced for them last season and managed difficult situations effectively, making the switch easy for everyone. It will be interesting to see how this young driver handles this role, but he seems to be full of confidence.
Lawson has shown that he is a huge talent, so the team's fans expect him to be someone who can make a difference and help them reach their goals in the upcoming period. Liam admitted that his ambitions are exactly that, wanting Red Bull to be at the very top. Although many see this as unrealistic, the young and promising driver is motivated to show the world what he’s capable of.
Mekies shared his enthusiasm about seeing young talent from the Red Bull family move up. He mentioned that the team is eager to work hard and focus on the rest of the season together.
Daniel Ricciardo shared that he tried to enjoy the weekend, similar to how he felt at the end of 2022 with McLaren. He was aware that it might be his last race, so he focused on enjoying it. This great driver believes he is happier in the sport now than he was back then. If this is the end, he feels a bit more at peace and is proud of his career, he said with tears after the Singapore race.
It will be interesting to follow this team and see what they can offer in the coming period. Fans of the sport hope for the best, but it won’t be easy to predict what the future holds. Red Bull is a team that has a strong lead over others, while their sister team RB wants to catch up in the coming years, and as soon as possible.
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