With the rumours now coming to reality, Formula 1’s beloved ‘Honey Badger’ Daniel Ricciardo has left RB with immediate effect. The rumours that plagued the number 3 driver have now come to fruition. With their reserve driver, Liam Lawson has been appointed RB’s new driver to partner alongside Yuki Tsunoda for the remainder of the season.
Farewell to the ‘Honey Badger’
Embed from Getty ImagesFrom HRT to Torro Rosso, Red Bull, Renault, McLaren and now Visa Cash App RB (formerly known as Alpha Tauri). The journey has come to an end with Ricciardo releasing a statement made by Formula 1:
“It’s wild and wonderful and has been a journey. To the teams and individuals that have played their part, thank you.”
The RB Team Principal, Laurent Mekies, praised Daniel Ricciardo for his efforts during his time with the team:
“Everyone here at VCARB would like to thank Daniel for his hard work across the last two seasons with us.”
During his 14 seasons in Formula 1, the ‘Honey Badger’ has accumulated, eight race wins, 32 podiums and a staggering 1329 points to his tally within the 257 races he has entered.
However, that tally will not continue as RB has dismissed the Australian driver effective immediately. And is replaced by the 2023 super sub, Liam Lawson.
Lawson Has 6 Races to Prove His Worth
Embed from Getty ImagesNow drafted in after Ricciardo’s dismissal, the New Zealand driver will have six races to prove his worth to clinch a full-time racing seat for the 2025 season.
Lawson’s venture will begin at the United States Grand Prix where he will need to demonstrate his capability if he wants a full-time racing seat.
His experience in Formula 1 comes with an impressive five-race substitution in 2023. Where the 22-year-old scored for Alpha Tauri at the time at the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, finishing ninth.
The New Zealand driver was welcomed by Team Principal Laurent Mekies, knowing that Lawson has driven with the team prior, knowing that the transition would be more natural, stating that:
“He drove for us last season, and coped well under difficult circumstances, so it’ll be a natural transition.”
So our last goodbye goes out, Daniel Ricciardo, and welcome in Liam Lawson back to the heart of Formula 1. On the track.
This is now Lawson’s golden opportunity to prove himself before signing a full-time contract. By competing amongst the best, he shows that he can cope under pressure and at the pinnacle of motorsport.
If you would like to learn more news about the world of Formula 1? Then why not check out “Piastri and Norris Will be Gunning for F1 Glory Next Season” or “Singapore Grand Prix: Marina Bay’s Intense Street Circuit”