Daniel Ricciardo's departure from Formula One has been officially confirmed following the announcement that New Zealander Liam Lawson will replace him at RB for the rest of the season. Ricciardo, a celebrated eight-time race winner, will step aside for Lawson at the upcoming round in Austin, Texas on October 20, marking the end of a career that has spanned 257 races. The 35-year-old Australian's future has been uncertain for much of the season, and Lawson, 22, will now have the opportunity to compete in the final six rounds.
"Everyone here would like to express their gratitude to Daniel for his dedication over the past two seasons with us," said RB's team principal, Laurent Mekies. "He has contributed a wealth of experience and skill to the team with an exemplary attitude, fostering a strong team spirit. Daniel has been a true sportsman both on and off the track, always with that signature smile. He will be greatly missed, but will always be remembered fondly within the Red Bull family."
Mekies also took the opportunity to welcome Lawson. "I'd also like to extend a warm welcome to Liam. He is already well-acquainted with the team. He drove for us last season and handled the pressure admirably, so this transition will be seamless. It's fantastic to see emerging talent from within the Red Bull family take the next step. We're eager to focus on the remainder of the season together."
Ricciardo was given a second chance by Red Bull after being let go by McLaren at the end of 2022 following two disappointing seasons with the British team. He was brought in by Red Bull's junior team, RB, midway through last season as a replacement for Nyck de Vries, but suffered a wrist injury in his third race back. Lawson then filled in for Ricciardo across the next five races.
The Australian made a comeback – qualifying an impressive fourth in Mexico – but has largely been outshone by his teammate Yuki Tsunoda this year, struggling to regain the form that once made him a Red Bull star. Ricciardo has accumulated just 12 points compared to Tsunoda's 22. He has also been out-qualified by Tsunoda in 12 of the 18 rounds so far. His final contribution was securing a bonus point by setting the fastest lap in Singapore last Sunday, aiding the title campaign of Max Verstappen, Red Bull's reigning world champion.
