The Formula 1 community was left stunned when Daniel Ricciardo’s departure from RB was confirmed just after the Singapore GP. In a move that caught many off guard, Red Bull’s sister team announced that Liam Lawson would take over Ricciardo’s seat for the remaining six races of the 2024 season, starting with the US Grand Prix in Austin. The decision sparked an outpouring of frustration and anger from Ricciardo’s loyal fanbase, much of which was unfairly directed at Lawson.
Ricciardo, visibly emotional at the conclusion of the Singapore GP, soaked in what appeared to be his final moments on the F1 grid. Though no official announcement had been made before the race, rumors were swirling about his potential departure. On September 26, those rumors were confirmed, leading to Lawson’s promotion to a full-time seat. In a video posted on social media, Lawson shared his excitement about the opportunity, calling it a “dream come true.”
“Liam here, very excited to say that I’ll be driving in the car from Austin,” Lawson said. “It’s obviously a massive opportunity, dream come true for me.”
However, not all fans shared Lawson’s enthusiasm. Social media quickly became a battleground, with many venting their anger directly at the Kiwi driver. Hurtful comments flooded his announcement post, ranging from insults to outright abuse. One user harshly commented, “Shut up bozo, nobody wants you,” while another angrily wrote, “F**k you.” Some fans labeled Lawson a “fraud” and others expressed their hope that he would fail in his new role.
The backlash continued with comments like, “When he eventually flops and Hadjar takes his seat, I will be there,” and “Praying for y’all downfall.” These remarks highlight the intensity of emotions surrounding Ricciardo’s exit and the misguided anger directed at Lawson.
It’s crucial for fans to recognize that Lawson had no hand in Red Bull’s decision to part ways with Ricciardo. He simply seized an opportunity presented to him, as any driver would. The abuse aimed at Lawson is unwarranted and highlights a concerning trend of toxic fan behavior. Such comments can severely impact an athlete’s mental health, and it’s important to support drivers in these transitions rather than tearing them down.
As of now, Lawson has not publicly responded to the hate he’s received, choosing instead to focus on his new role. Fans should remember that while they may be upset with the team’s decision, directing their anger toward Lawson is not the answer.
