Daniel Ricciardo remains hopeful about finishing the 2024 Formula 1 season with Red Bull, but the Australian driver has conceded that there are no guarantees. With his future at the team still hanging in the balance, Ricciardo acknowledges that he can’t confidently bet on completing the season.
Red Bull is currently weighing up its options for the second RB seat, which could see Ricciardo replaced by rising star Liam Lawson, who is poised to join Yuki Tsunoda. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has hinted that an official announcement about the team’s 2025 lineup will come during the upcoming autumn break, fueling speculation about Ricciardo’s immediate future.
While rumors swirl about a potential early exit to make way for Lawson, Ricciardo insists that his primary focus is on securing his position for next year, rather than worrying about whether he will finish the current season.
“Honestly, my main expectation right now is to get clarity on next year,” Ricciardo told reporters. “We’re in a critical window regarding contracts, so I’m anticipating a definite answer for 2025. I’m aware of the speculation about the rest of this season, but my priority is to secure my place for next year. But as we know, crazy things happen in this sport.”
When asked directly if this could be his last race of the season, Ricciardo responded cautiously: “I don’t think so, but I also don’t want to make bold promises. We know how F1 works—drivers have been let go mid-season before. I’ve been around long enough to understand that nothing is set in stone.”
Ricciardo, who stepped in for Nyck de Vries mid-season, understands Red Bull’s ruthless approach and admits that there are no certainties in his current role. He believes a strong performance at the Singapore Grand Prix could significantly alter perceptions and his chances of retaining his seat.
“I know this sport can be a merry-go-round. If I land a podium this weekend, suddenly I’m the hottest property in the paddock,” Ricciardo remarked. “It’s all about seizing the moment and making the most of every opportunity.”
Despite the uncertainty, Ricciardo hasn’t ruled out a sensational return to Red Bull’s senior team if the company decides to part ways with Sergio Perez. Reflecting on discussions during the summer break, Ricciardo said, “They told me to keep doing what I’m doing for the second half of the season, and that’s exactly what I intend to do. My focus is on performing, and I know things can change very quickly in this sport.”
As the F1 world watches closely, Ricciardo remains determined to fight for his place on the grid, fully aware that every race could be a defining moment in his career.
