Daniel Ricciardo could leave Formula 1 before the end of the season. Singapore, in fact, could be his last race with Racing Bulls. According to the latest rumors, Liam Lawson, already designated as the race driver for 2025, awaiting confirmation, could take Ricciardo's place starting from the Austin Grand Prix, scheduled for October 20. This move would mark an early change in the Racing Bulls line-up, a decision that now seems inevitable given Ricciardo's inconsistent performances.
Lawson ready for early debut?
Red Bull Racing super consultant Helmut Marko had already stated in recent weeks that Lawson's future would be announced in September, with his role as race driver for 2025 confirmed. However, according to recent rumors, the young talent's debut could happen much earlier. The official announcement could come after the Singapore Grand Prix, with Lawson ready to take the wheel as early as the Austin Grand Prix.
Ralf Schumacher recently spoke about the situation, explaining that “the driver change was part of the contract for Lawson, otherwise they would have lost him”. This suggests that Red Bull, while wanting to keep the young talent on their roster, found itself in the need to speed up his debut to prevent other teams from getting close to Lawson. “It’s a shame for Daniel because we will miss a driver who is super friendly, always smiling and who you enjoy meeting in the paddock,” added Schumacher, underlining the impact this decision could have within the paddock.
Ricciardo's crisis: injuries and lack of results
Daniel Ricciardo's return to Formula 1 after the first races of last season was greeted with great enthusiasm, but his path was immediately hindered by a wrist injury during free practice for the Dutch Grand Prix. In his absence, it was Liam Lawson who took his place at Racing Bulls, contesting five races and scoring two valuable points at the Singapore Grand Prix. Despite Ricciardo's commitment and desire to return to the top, his results remained below expectations, casting doubt on his ability to compete at the highest level.
The Australian's lack of consistency, along with the advancement of promising youngsters like Lawson, has prompted Red Bull to consider an early change. Helmut Marko has made no secret of his disappointment with Ricciardo's performance, and while his experience and charisma make him a beloved figure in the paddock, the numbers don't play in his favor.
Lawson: A Talent Not to be Missed
Liam Lawson has impressed many with his performances during his substitute appearances throughout the season. The young New Zealander has shown not only speed, but also a great ability to adapt quickly to situations, a trait that has convinced Red Bull to bet on him for the future. “Yes, Red Bull Racing is a junior team, that’s what the management has always said and said again: ‘We will rely on our young drivers’, and that’s why it makes sense,” explained Ralf Schumacher, underlining the team’s philosophy of nurturing its talents.
If Lawson were to take over from Ricciardo from the Austin Grand Prix, he would have the opportunity to gain valuable experience ahead of 2025, when he will officially become a race driver. This early debut could be an advantage for the young driver, giving him time to familiarise himself with the car and the team in a less pressured environment than at the start of a new season.
An early farewell to Formula 1 would mark a difficult moment for Ricciardo, who, despite his efforts, has not managed to return to the level that made him one of the most popular and successful drivers in the championship. However, in the world of Formula 1, nothing is certain, and until the official announcement, everything can still change.
We will have to wait and see if the rumours are confirmed, but one thing is certain: the future of Racing Bulls and Liam Lawson is rapidly shaping up, and Formula 1 could soon welcome a new talent.
