Daniel Ricciardo Reflects on Possible End to F1 Career as Liam Lawson Rumored to Replace Him
ICARO Media Group
Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo hinted at the possibility of his career in the sport coming to an end after a challenging run to 18th place at the Singapore Grand Prix. With Liam Lawson rumored to take over his Red Bull seat in Austin, Ricciardo acknowledged that the envisioned "fairytale ending" may not materialize if it indeed turns out to be his last Formula 1 race. Despite remaining tight-lipped about his future, Ricciardo expressed a sense of disappointment following a difficult race where he struggled and finished as the last car on the track.
Throughout his 13-year career in Formula 1, Ricciardo has seen both highs and lows, with his recent return to the sport after a break in 2023 failing to yield significant improvements. Reflecting on his journey, Ricciardo admitted to aiming for a competitive comeback with Red Bull but acknowledged that this aspiration did not come to fruition. Despite the challenges, he expressed pride in his accomplishments over the years, emphasizing that he always strived to compete at the front of the grid.
While Ricciardo refrained from delving into his future plans, he hinted at the possibility of retiring from Formula 1, expressing a mix of emotions as he contemplated the end of his racing career. Admitting to feeling drained post-race, Ricciardo acknowledged that the flood of emotions and exhaustion signaled a potential conclusion to his time on the track. His determination was evident in his efforts during the Singapore Grand Prix, where he made a strategic attempt to gain ground starting on soft tires after being eliminated in Q1 during qualifying.
As the speculation surrounding Liam Lawson potentially taking over his Red Bull drive grows, Ricciardo's performance in the Singapore Grand Prix could have implications for the ongoing title battle between former teammate Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. Despite the challenges faced, Ricciardo managed to secure the fastest lap towards the end of the race, a factor that could impact the championship outcome if the title is decided by a close margin. Amidst uncertainties about his future in Formula 1, Ricciardo's focus remains on appreciating his journey and the experiences garnered during his extensive tenure in the sport.