The ever-evolving saga of Red Bull’s junior team—formerly known as Toro Rosso, then Alpha Tauri, and now rebranded as Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB)—continues to generate drama, especially with its revolving door of drivers. Known for being the ultimate proving ground, the team has seen several drivers rise and fall, with some getting the boot faster than expected.
The most recent controversy unfolded in 2023 when Nyck De Vries was shown the door and replaced by Daniel Ricciardo, a veteran and fan favorite. Fast forward a little over a year, and the beloved “Honey Badger” finds himself sidelined again, making way for rising star Liam Lawson.
Daniel Ricciardo is not just another driver; he’s an F1 icon. Known for his blazing speed during his prime Red Bull years and his infectious charisma, Ricciardo captured hearts not only on the track but also in the Netflix sensation Drive to Survive. His larger-than-life personality helped elevate the sport’s profile, making him a key player in F1’s global expansion. Alongside figures like former Haas Team Principal Guenther Steiner, Ricciardo became a staple of the series, amplifying his reach beyond the paddock.
Ricciardo’s career saw him move from Renault to McLaren before finding his way back to Red Bull as a reserve driver—a move that initially seemed like the perfect way to re-establish his career path. The hope was that this stint with the junior team could eventually lead him back to the senior Red Bull squad.
However, as the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix approached, rumors swirled about Ricciardo’s future. Despite his solid performances leading up to the event, speculation mounted that Lawson might replace him. This looming uncertainty left everyone—including Ricciardo’s fans and colleagues—on edge. When the decision finally came, Ricciardo’s exit felt abrupt and lacking the respect one would expect for a driver who has contributed so much to the sport.
Instead of reinstating Ricciardo to the senior team, Red Bull remained committed to Sergio Perez, while Lawson’s rising star and strong performances earned him the seat at VCARB. The choice was met with mixed reactions, as fans felt Ricciardo deserved more than just a quiet send-off. Despite his injury setbacks, the 35-year-old was a popular figure in the paddock, and many believe he was sidelined too hastily.
Now, it’s Lawson’s turn to prove his worth alongside Yuki Tsunoda. The rookie has potential, but the pressure is immense. Every lap he completes will be scrutinized, not just for his performance but in comparison to Ricciardo’s legacy. It’s a high-stakes game for the Red Bull camp, as Lawson’s success—or failure—could influence the long-term driver lineup at Red Bull Racing.
Fans, sponsors, and even betting markets are watching closely, eager to see if Lawson can live up to the hype or if Ricciardo’s shadow will loom large over the young driver’s career. Either way, the VCARB saga continues, ensuring that the Red Bull circus remains a focal point in the F1 world.
