Nico Rosberg Advocates for a Grand Farewell: Daniel Ricciardo’s Understated F1 Departure Sparks Debate

Nico Rosberg believes Daniel Ricciardo should have had a more fitting F1 departure than what he experienced in Singapore.

Nico Rosberg feels that Daniel Ricciardo is worthy of a more fitting farewell from Formula 1 than what was witnessed at the Singapore Grand Prix.

The 35-year-old from Australia crossed the finish line in 18th place and recorded the quickest lap time in Singapore, in what is anticipated to be his last Formula 1 race, marking the end of a career that began in 2011.

Speculation is rife that Ricciardo will be succeeded as a driver for Red Bull's RB squad by backup racer Liam Lawson just before the United States Grand Prix in Austin.

RB team leader Laurent Mekies acknowledged they allowed Ricciardo the opportunity to "finish with the quickest lap" since Singapore "could have been Daniel's final race".

Following the race, Ricciardo was honored with a guard of honour by the RB team staff, yet there has not been an official announcement confirming that his departure from F1 will indeed take place after the Singapore Grand Prix.

"If this was indeed his final weekend, he truly merits a grand farewell," remarked Rosberg, the 2016 World Champion, during the Sky Sports F1 podcast.

"It's as if we're in the dark about the whole situation. We're not even sure if it will take place, which is quite an unfortunate state of affairs. He ought to be treated with more respect than this."

Rosberg notably stepped away from Formula 1 mere days after securing his first world championship title, surpassing Lewis Hamilton in 2016.

The German, at the age of 31, decided to leave the sport, stating his desire to control his own future and his eagerness to steer clear of a possible downturn in his career.

"Indeed, that would have influenced my choice, as my aim was to prevent any decline in my position that could eventually lead to my dismissal," he further stated.

"As you age and as situations evolve, there will eventually come a moment when the newer generation steps up, signaling your replacement.

"Undoubtedly, that's a situation I would have preferred to steer clear of. Granted, there might have been ample opportunity left, likely owing to my youth, but regardless, it was crucial for me to maintain control over it."

"See that, Daniel? That conclusion doesn't quite do justice. Similarly, the manner in which Sebastian Vettel's career wrapped up seems undeserving. That final scene is something that will stay with me forever."

"It holds great significance for me to make the correct choices, and looking back, I understand it was a difficult period for numerous individuals who were captivated by the competition with Lewis [Hamilton]. However, from my perspective and for my family, it was the appropriate decision."

Explore Further

Sign up for our Formula 1 Newsletter

Receive the most recent F1 updates, special content, conversations, and special offers straight from the track to your email.

For further details, please consult our Privacy Policy.

Recent Updates

Further Updates

Website Navigation

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

The complete or partial replication of text, images, or illustrations is strictly prohibited in any manner.