Daniel Ricciardo Sacked by Red Bull F1 Team in Shocking Shake-Up

F1’s Worst-Kept Secret: Daniel Ricciardo’s Departure from Red Bull

The news has finally been confirmed: Daniel Ricciardo’s tenure at Red Bull Racing has come to an end. The Australian driver’s departure was all but certain after his colleagues and TV commentators openly discussed it following the Singapore Grand Prix. However, Red Bull Racing surprisingly failed to make an official statement until Thursday afternoon, when they confirmed that Ricciardo is out, effective immediately.

Liam Lawson to Replace Ricciardo

Up-and-coming driver Liam Lawson will take over Ricciardo’s seat for the remainder of the 2024 season. Red Bull will then analyze their options for the 2025 season, which may mark the end of Ricciardo’s Formula 1 career. While it’s possible he could take a sabbatical and return in 2026, there’s little motivation for teams to choose him over drivers who have delivered better results lately.

Ricciardo’s Legacy

Ricciardo’s best finish this season came in Miami, where he finished fourth in the sprint race. However, he’s struggled to keep up with his teammate Yuki Tsunoda, finishing 14th in the championship with 12 points. Despite his struggles, Ricciardo has contributed significantly to Red Bull’s success, winning eight races, scoring 32 podiums, and earning 1,329 points over 14 years in the sport.

The Future is Uncertain

Ricciardo’s departure from Red Bull has left his future in Formula 1 uncertain. Rumors suggest that Sergio Perez may also leave his seat at the end of the season, creating a vacancy in an already tight market. Ricciardo’s best chance of securing a ride may be to compete with Valtteri Bottas for the remaining Audi/Sauber seat.

Ricciardo’s Farewell Message

In a heartfelt message on his Instagram account, Ricciardo thanked his teams, individuals, and fans for their support over the years. He reflected on the highs and lows of his career, stating that he wouldn’t change a thing and is excited for his next adventure.

What’s Next?

The future is uncertain for Ricciardo, but one thing is clear: his departure from Red Bull marks the end of an era. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see where Ricciardo’s career takes him next.