Daniel Ricciardo Responds to Helmut Marko’s Exit Hint as Rising Star Liam Lawson Casts Shadow Over F1 Future

Daniel Ricciardo responds candidly to potential departure as Liam Lawson emerges threateningly

Helmut Marko's suggestion has elicited a forthright reply from Daniel Ricciardo

Daniel Ricciardo has faced inquiries regarding a daring statement from Helmut Marko implying that he could potentially lose his Formula 1 seat.

In the lead-up to this weekend's F1 Austrian Grand Prix, which is Red Bull's home race, Marko made a shocking statement implying that Ricciardo may not remain with the RB team for much longer.

Marko mentioned to Kleine Zeitung that their aim was for Ricciardo to be in contention for Red Bull Racing through outstanding performances.

“This spot has been assigned to Sergio Perez, making this plan void.”

Marko mentioned regarding the RB F1 team: "A young driver will need to be placed in that position soon. That driver would be Liam Lawson."

In Austria, Ricciardo responded by saying, "I've gotten very skilled at avoiding reading stuff. Honestly, I wasn't aware of it until someone informed me after I arrived. Honestly, I don't have strong feelings about it either way."

"I understand that the most crucial aspect of this sport is how well you perform. That's the key to my best chance of remaining here, I'm aware of that."

"It won't be my smile or any other personal attribute. It's all about the performance on the track."

"I clearly have a great chance, and while I mention the summer break, I don't see it as a strict deadline. It's just a natural point to evaluate the first half of the season."

Reflecting on the race in Barcelona, finishing 15th might not seem thrilling, but I was genuinely pleased with my performance. So, I would say that I've had at least two good weekends in a row now.

"This year, I've definitely struggled to achieve a series of consistent good results. Having just two is insufficient, especially considering my goals."

"We still have two more to go. I certainly have an opportunity to build some momentum heading into the summer break."

Addressing the Helmut issue, honestly, it's not a big deal. It won't affect my plans at all.

Last year, Ricciardo's remarkable performance during a test drive with Red Bull led the team to decide to place him in AlphaTauri, taking over as a full-time driver from Nyck de Vries, who had been underperforming.

Ricciardo sustained an injury, and Lawson stepped in admirably.

This season, Ricciardo has not met expectations, and Lawson's forthcoming trial run with a 2022 AlphaTauri at Imola seems foreboding.

When asked if he had any concerns, Ricciardo responded, "No, not at all. I also think it’s something that has been in the works for some time. Moreover, as you grow older, you realize that you should focus on what you can control."

"If Liam excels in his test, scoring a perfect 100%, that's great for him. I have no influence over that outcome, and I certainly don't wish him any harm."

"I believe I hold the lead position at the moment, so I must focus on managing the elements within my control."

"I believe that if I perform exceptionally well here and at Silverstone, the story can shift. I understand that it's up to me to take control and excel at what I'm capable of doing. Yes."

"I believe securing fifth place in Montreal brought a smile to Helmut's face. If I can achieve similar results a few more times, I'm confident I'll keep him pleased."

“The emphasis remains significantly on performance; staying focused on this aspect is crucial.”

What alternative does Daniel Ricciardo have to remain in Formula 1?

The experienced driver maintains that he has not explored the possibility of joining another team.

“I would probably say no, although I’m not entirely certain,” he remarked. “It’s not out of stubbornness or arrogance, but I’m not considering any other options.”

"I've mentioned before that I genuinely like being back with the team. Oddly enough, I sometimes appreciate Helmut's jabs because they can motivate me and push me to perform at my best. So, in summary, no."

Christian Horner, who leads the Red Bull team, is said to have previously supported Ricciardo.

Ricciardo was questioned about whether Horner had suggested he could be dropped.

He responded by saying that he hadn’t received any information.

"There has been no pressure, no ultimatum, or anything of that sort."

"However, having been involved in the sport for a considerable amount of time, I'm aware that consistently poor performances would eventually lead to someone telling me to improve or face consequences. Fortunately, that hasn't happened to me."

"However, as I mentioned earlier, I understand that performing well occasionally isn't sufficient, and it’s not where I aim to be. I don’t wish to experience sporadic successes amidst frequent disappointments."

“I’m the person driving, and I need to press the accelerator a little more forcefully.”

If Ricciardo decides against having an alternative plan and Red Bull lets him go, he might find himself without a racing seat for 2025 if other teams have already secured their drivers.

However, he does not seem worried.

"I don't want to come across as casual because I obviously care a lot," he expressed. "But I'm not sure."

“Perhaps I’ve reached a stage where I simply accept that whatever happens, happens.”

"I plan to give my all in terms of effort and performance. If that earns me a spot, fantastic. If not, at least I'll know I did my best."

"In terms of the situation similar to musical chairs, or whatever it's called, I believe that if I concentrate on that, then I'm… I need to devote all my attention to this matter. It's as straightforward as that."

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