Recent reports suggest that Lawson will replace Ricciardo at Red Bull’s junior team VCARB after the Singapore Grand Prix.
Speculation surrounding RB’s second seat has heated up with recent reports indicating the team is set to announce reserve driver Liam Lawson will replace Ricciardo after this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix marking potentially the end of an era for the Australian driver.
This development has sparked widespread speculation within the motorsport community, particularly as Ricciardo’s performance has been under scrutiny.
The seasoned racer with a storied career spanning over 250 races and eight Grand Prix victories has struggled to perform since rejoining the Red Bull family at VCARB in 2024. His performance has been underwhelming, with only 12 points to his name this season, placing him 14th in the driver standings—ten points behind his teammate Yuki Tsunoda.
The disparity in performance has led many to question whether he can secure a long-term future within the Red Bull family, with rumours and reports claiming RB is set to confirm Lawson will replace Ricciardo after this weekend’s event.
The whispers surrounding Ricciardo’s potential exit have been fueled by comments from veteran F1 journalist Roger Benoit, who suggested that the Singapore Grand Prix could be Ricciardo’s last race with VCARB.
Benoit reported that Red Bull has activated its option on Lawson’s contract, ensuring that he will be integrated into the team by 2025 at the latest. This development aligns with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko’s previous statements indicating the 22-year old would be given opportunities to race in F1 sooner rather than later.
“The career of Daniel Ricciardo could end here in Singapore, after 257 races and 8 victories,” Benoit wrote in Blick newspaper.
“Racing Bulls has exercised the option on New Zealander Liam Lawson (22) and will use him by 2025 at the latest,” Benoit continued. “But could Ricciardo leave even earlier?”
Interestingly, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the timing of the transition. Initial reports claimed that Visa Cash App RB would confirm Ricciardo’s future during last weekend’s race in Baku.
Now some sources assert that Lawson could debut in Singapore itself while others suggest that Ricciardo might complete the season before being replaced during the four-week break leading up to the United States Grand Prix on October 20.
The narrative surrounding Lawson is equally compelling as he represents a new generation of talent eager to make their mark in Formula 1. His ascent through Red Bull’s ranks has been closely monitored by team management, and there is a palpable excitement about what he could bring to VCARB if given the chance to compete alongside Tsunoda.
The Kiwi has made a good impression during his tenure as a Red Bull reserve driver with his previous performances while subbing for Ricciardo showcased his talent and composure under pressure.
During those races, Lawson demonstrated that he could compete at a high level, which only intensified calls for him to be given an opportunity as a full-time driver. His recent statements reflect his readiness and eagerness to take on this challenge should Ricciardo continue to falter.
The dynamics within Red Bull are complex as the team is known for its rigorous performance standards and willingness to make bold decisions regarding its drivers therefore its highly anticipated the announcement will be made soon.
This means the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix will be pivotal in determining the future for the two drivers. If it is indeed confirmed Lawson will replace Ricciardo, it would mark a major shift in Red Bull’s strategy as they look towards the future.
The team has already secured Tsunoda’s services for 2025, leaving only one seat available for next season—a seat that Lawson is now heavily favored to fill.
