The Red Bull camp recently made headlines by replacing Daniel Ricciardo with Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls, a decision that took place shortly after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. However, in a shocking twist, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko revealed that Ricciardo had known about his exit even before the Singapore race.
This revelation left fans outraged, particularly over the ongoing tenure of Sergio Perez, whose inconsistent performances at Red Bull have drawn heavy criticism. Many are questioning why Perez remains in the seat when Ricciardo, despite his struggles, was given his marching orders.
After being called up to replace Nyck de Vries post-2023 British Grand Prix, Ricciardo had high expectations upon his return to the team. But after a string of lackluster performances, the eight-time Grand Prix winner found himself out of the race seat once again, making way for Lawson. Rumors about Ricciardo’s potential exit swirled during the summer break, but he was still given a few more chances to prove himself. The final blow came when Red Bull informed him that the Singapore GP would be his last race for the team.
Throughout the Singapore GP weekend, Ricciardo’s demeanor spoke volumes. His subtle gestures of waving goodbye, lingering in the paddock, and delivering heartfelt interviews all hinted at an impending departure. By September 26th, Red Bull officially confirmed what fans had feared: Daniel Ricciardo was out.
The announcement triggered a wave of discontent on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), with fans taking direct aim at the team’s decision to retain Sergio Perez. The Mexican driver, who has underperformed in 2024, continues to hold his seat despite a lack of strong results.
One frustrated fan voiced their disapproval: “That’s all well and good… but why does Perez still have a seat? He’s making Lance Stroll look good.” Another echoed this sentiment, saying, “Ricciardo helped Max’s title fight while Checo loses us the constructors. One man has a seat, and one doesn’t. Make it make sense.”
Others couldn’t hide their frustration at how Ricciardo’s exit was handled. “Lmao, he’s the best driver in the Red Bull team behind Max. Tsunoda and Perez have done sweet f*ck all too. Ricciardo drove that boat of an RB pretty well,” one fan remarked, comparing Ricciardo’s performances to those of Verstappen’s teammates.
The call to give Ricciardo another chance was loud and clear, with a fan tweeting,
“Fire Checo and put DR in the RB seat.” Another added with sarcasm, “Yeah, nah, Checo has been just great.”
Fans also expressed their disbelief over Red Bull’s reasoning for Ricciardo’s departure: “‘Not continuously and not at the level that would have justified him coming to Red Bull’—oh yeah, my bad, forgot how good Checo has been.”
It’s not just about sentiment either. Perez’s 2024 season has left much to be desired. Despite driving the mighty RB20, he has only managed 144 points across 18 races and three sprints, placing him a disappointing P8 in the Drivers’ Championship. In contrast to his teammate Max Verstappen, Perez’s struggles have been glaring, leading to louder calls for a reshuffle at Red Bull.
So what exactly did Helmut Marko say about Ricciardo’s exit? Marko recently admitted that the decision was made before the Singapore GP, stating: “He was informed, and the worthy farewell performance was, I think, the fastest lap. That still showed what potential he has—not continuously and not at the level that would have justified him coming to Red Bull Racing, but that was an impeccable performance.”
For fans of the Honey Badger, this acknowledgment was bittersweet. While Marko praised Ricciardo’s farewell lap, it wasn’t enough to save his seat. And with Ricciardo currently not linked to any other teams for the 2025 season, his future in Formula 1 hangs in the balance. Will he make a return, or is this the end of the road for one of the sport’s most beloved characters?
As it stands, Daniel Ricciardo’s next move remains uncertain. The man famous for his “shoeys” may yet find another opportunity in Formula 1, or this may be his final chapter in the pinnacle of motorsport. But for now, fans are left wondering how a driver of Ricciardo’s caliber is out of a seat while Perez, with his underwhelming results, continues to race at the front of the grid.
What do you think? Should Red Bull have kept Ricciardo, or is it time for Perez to go? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Fans Furious: “Why Does Sergio Perez Still Have a Seat?” After Helmut Marko’s Bombshell on Ricciardo’s F1 Exit
