F1
Turning Point: How Ricciardo’s Zandvoort Crash Paved the Way for Lawson’s Rise at Red Bull
Crucial Incident Identified in Daniel Ricciardo's F1 Departure
An essential incident has been suggested as influencing Red Bull's decision to part ways with Daniel Ricciardo.
The accident involving Daniel Ricciardo at the Dutch Grand Prix last year has been identified as a crucial event that shaped his future in Formula 1.
After the Singapore Grand Prix, it has been announced that Liam Lawson will take over from the eight-time grand prix winner in Red Bull’s junior team for the rest of the 2024 F1 season.
Halfway through last year, Ricciardo rejoined Red Bull with the intention of taking over Sergio Perez's spot on the main team. However, his plans were disrupted only two races later when he sustained a hand injury in an accident at Zandvoort.
The Australian, who is 35 years old, was unable to participate in five races due to an injury. This absence provided an opportunity for Lawson to step in and make a mark. Lawson took advantage of this chance and delivered an impressive performance, earning two points by finishing ninth in the race held in Singapore.
During an episode of the Sky Sports F1 podcast, former grand prix racer and now commentator Anthony Davidson believes that Ricciardo’s accident and subsequent break due to injury were pivotal in shaping the course of recent events.
"Every driver tends to feel regret after an incident, regardless of how minor the consequences may be. However, Davidson noted that Ricciardo's crash at Zandvoort the previous year was a crucial moment that could significantly impact his career with the team and his overall presence in Formula 1."
"It provided an opportunity for a determined young driver eager to prove themselves. When given even the smallest opportunity, as demonstrated by [Franco] Colapinto, these young drivers, driven by their ambition, seize the moment and perform impressively."
This is precisely the situation with Liam Lawson. Since that time, he has likely been persistently urging Helmut Marko, saying, "Look at my performance; I can improve on that. Give me another chance to drive, or I might leave."
"The final point is also very important, in my opinion. I believe that if Ricciardo hadn't stepped down to allow Lawson to take his place, there was a risk that Lawson might have been picked up by another team, possibly Audi. Lawson needed an opportunity, and it seems Red Bull recognized this situation."
"Motorsport is tough. Who will lead the future? Will it be Ricciardo or Lawson? Sadly for Ricciardo, Lawson is the younger contender. In the end, it comes down to the numbers game."
Lawson is set to participate in six races with Yuki Tsunoda, serving as a trial for a permanent seat with RB and possibly a future opportunity to drive for Red Bull next year.
Discover More
Sign Up for Our F1 Newsletter
Receive the newest updates, special insights, interviews, and offers from the F1 paddock straight to your email
To learn more, please review our Privacy Policy.
Current Updates
Additional Stories
Website Map
Crash.Net
©1999-2024 Crash Media Group
It is prohibited to wholly or partially copy text, images, or drawings in any manner.
Discover more from Automobilnews News - The first AI News Portal world wide
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.