Daniel Ricciardo has been let go by the Red Bull Racing junior team, effective immediately, marking an unexpected midseason exit from his second tenure in Formula 1.
The future remains uncertain for the popular Australian driver, who boasts eight race victories over a 14-year career. He has gained significant attention among American F1 fans through his presence on Netflix’s “Drive to Survive.” At 35 years old, Ricciardo does not currently have a seat for the next season, and options seem limited as most teams have solidified their rosters for 2025. Throughout his F1 career, he has achieved three pole positions and 32 podium finishes.
In a heartfelt message to his 9.3 million Instagram followers, Ricciardo reflected on his love for the sport, thanking teams, fans, and individuals who supported him. He indicated he wouldn’t change his experiences and looked forward to his next adventure.
The Red Bull junior team, known as Visa Cash App RB, has announced that reserve driver Liam Lawson will replace Ricciardo for the final six races of the 2024 season, with two of these events taking place in the U.S.
RB team principal Laurent Mekies praised Ricciardo for his contributions and positive attitude over the past two seasons, calling him a true gentleman both on and off the track. He emphasized that Ricciardo would be missed but would always hold a special place within the Red Bull family.
When questioned about the reasons for the midseason change and any urgent deadlines regarding Ricciardo’s future, a Red Bull spokesperson declined to comment, stating they do not discuss driver contracts publicly.
This season has been challenging for the once-dominant Red Bull team, which is currently trailing McLaren in the constructors’ championship. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen’s lead in the drivers’ standings has diminished due to McLaren’s Lando Norris.
Ricciardo initially joined the Red Bull junior team in 2011 and was promoted to the senior team in 2014, where he quickly established himself as a skilled driver known for his daring overtakes. However, after leaving Red Bull in 2018 amid tensions with Verstappen, his career trajectory faced difficulties, despite a memorable victory with McLaren in 2021. Following struggles and a subsequent release from McLaren, Ricciardo returned to the Red Bull family last year.
Following his last race in Singapore, where he exhibited emotional vulnerability amid speculation about his replacement, Ricciardo acknowledged the significance of the moment.
Mekies also welcomed Lawson, highlighting his previous experience with the team and expressing enthusiasm about utilizing young talent from within the Red Bull ranks. The team is looking to focus on the remainder of the season.