Helmut Marko, in his usual direct and sharp style, did not mince words to offer a well-served medium to Daniel Ricciardo: Liam Lawson is ready to replace him at Visa Cash App RB in the next future.
Ricciardo has been racing for sister team Red Bull for almost a year but looks set to be dropped after failing to impress with his performances.
The Australian was initially brought back into the Red Bull fold with the aim of replacing Sergio Perez as Max Verstappen's teammate. However, earlier this month, it was confirmed that Perez has signed a new two-year contract to keep him at Milton Keynes until the end of 2026.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix, Marko confirmed that Lawson will be given a VCARB seat in the near future, which could potentially spell the end of Ricciardo's time on the grid.
“The shareholders have made it known that this is a junior team and we must act accordingly“Marko said. “The aim was that Ricciardo would be considered for Red Bull with outstanding performances. That seat now belongs to Perez, so that plan is no longer valid. Soon we will have to include a young driver. And that would be Liam Lawson“.
Lawson replaced Ricciardo on a temporary basis last year following the latter's hand injury at the Dutch Grand Prix. He performed well, but was overlooked for the current one lineup VCARB. Words that leave room for few interpretations from the Graz manager. For Ricciardo the future becomes very difficult. A clear change of pace is needed to save the seat.
Crediti foto: Visa Cash App RB