Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team has officially announced the departure of Daniel Ricciardo from the team, effective immediately. His position will be filled by Liam Lawson, a junior driver from Red Bull, concluding weeks of speculation regarding Ricciardo’s future.
After being left without a seat for the 2023 season following his exit from McLaren, Ricciardo joined RB in the middle of last year to replace Nyck De Vries, who was deemed underperforming. Ricciardo’s contract with the team was set to expire at the end of the current season, and there had been rumors of a potential return to Red Bull. However, the early decision to replace him was made by RB, which is the sister team to Red Bull.
In an Instagram post, Ricciardo expressed his love for the sport and gratitude to the teams and fans who have supported him throughout his career. He reflected on his journey, stating, “It’s wild and wonderful… I wouldn’t change it.”
Laurent Mekies, the Team Principal of RB, acknowledged Ricciardo’s contributions over the last two seasons, praising his experience, talent, and positive attitude, describing him as a true gentleman who will be missed.
Having spent 14 seasons in Formula One, Ricciardo has established an impressive resume, including eight race wins and 32 podium finishes, placing him 35th on the all-time list. He has accrued 1,329 points across 257 races and competed in the recent Singapore Grand Prix, finishing in 18th place.
Ricciardo began his career with the Red Bull Academy before making his F1 debut in 2011. He rapidly moved through the ranks, starting with HRT and then Toro Rosso, before joining the main Red Bull team in 2014, where he achieved significant success. He later raced for Renault and McLaren, notably securing a memorable victory at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix.
Although Ricciardo expressed pride in his accomplishments in F1, he admitted that he still holds aspirations of becoming a world champion. He will leave a notable absence on the grid as RB transitions to a younger lineup.
Liam Lawson, who has previously stepped in for Ricciardo during his wrist injury, is set to make his full-time racing debut at the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas next month.