Daniel Ricciardo has given his reaction to Liam Lawson’s upcoming TPC test with Red Bull.
Helmut Marko has hinted speculation over Liam Lawson getting a seat at RB soon has come directly from the Kiwi’s management.
According to the Red Bull advisor, rumors about Liam Lawson potentially replacing Daniel Ricciardo in the middle of the season have originated from New Zealand. The advisor is in charge of selecting and developing drivers for Red Bull.
Helmut Marko: Rumours of Daniel Ricciardo swap ‘nonsense’
Lawson is an extremely sought-after commodity in the driver market, as his exceptional performance as a replacement for the injured Ricciardo last season has garnered attention.
It is reported that Lawson was given the opportunity to partner with Ricciardo at the newly-renamed RB team for this year. However, Honda stepped in and supported Yuki Tsunoda to ensure that the Japanese driver kept his seat.
Lawson, having participated in five Grands Prix, is now ineligible for any free practice sessions or rookie driver obligations. As a result, he is currently serving as a reserve driver for both Red Bull teams and waiting on the sidelines.
Rumours have recently emerged that RB was set to perform a sensational driver swap to replace the struggling Ricciardo with Lawson – rumours that may now be quelled by the Australian’s much improved showing in Miami as he raced to fourth place in the Sprint race.
Marko has firmly denied any intention of replacing Ricciardo at any time, emphasizing that Lawson’s management was responsible for spreading the rumor in certain New Zealand publications.
Marko dismissed the speculation surrounding Ricciardo’s replacement by Liam Lawson at Imola as baseless, stating in his Speedweek column after the Miami Grand Prix.
Liam’s manager, hailing from New Zealand, was present and it seems that he harbors specific aspirations, which are communicated through various media outlets, including those in New Zealand.
There are no plans whatsoever in Imola.
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However, although Marko may not have been impressed by this tactic, assuming it is true, the 81-year-old Austrian stated that Lawson is still considered a potential candidate for a seat in 2025.
“However, we will certainly examine this at a later time,” Marko stated, acknowledging his previous appreciation for Lawson’s accomplishments as an ill-prepared rookie in 2023.
Lawson expressed his confidence in taking over the RB position and replacing any driver who is removed, stating that he feels completely prepared. Speaking in late March, he stated his readiness without hesitation.
Lawson commented, “I believe Daniel is aware of the potential that exists, but I’m certain he is expected to elevate his performance.”
It is quite evident that this year is the first in a long time where all the drivers remain unchanged. This situation makes it exceptionally challenging to secure a seat, given the presence of numerous other skilled individuals. I believe I am prepared for the opportunity, but the competition is quite fierce.
My ultimate aim is to return to that seat as quickly as possible.
However, Lawson’s chances in Miami, particularly with the RB squad, may have slightly declined. Ricciardo outperformed him significantly, showing signs of a comeback since the team introduced a new chassis for him during the Chinese Grand Prix.
Marko commended both Tsunoda and Ricciardo for their impressive performances during the Miami weekend, acknowledging their moments of strength.
Marko wrote that Daniel’s performance in the Sprint was also remarkable.
He achieved a sensational fourth place finish, clocking the fastest time in sector three.
In this particular sector, the majority of turns are slow. By driving with precision in this area, you can significantly increase your overall time advantage.
Making a mistake becomes doubly punishing due to the slow speed.
After being eliminated in Q1, Ricciardo’s performance in the Grand Prix took a downturn, while Tsunoda experienced a role reversal by securing seventh place. Marko clarified the reasons behind Ricciardo’s sudden loss of form following his impressive showing in the Sprint.
Marko emphasized that Ricciardo made an error in the sector where he secured his fourth position, three hours later.
As a result, he found himself outside the qualifying window and got eliminated in Q1.
However, that was not the only issue as Ricciardo also failed to pick up speed during the race.
Yuki consistently achieved fast times, whereas Ricciardo seemed to lack the speed and confidence displayed in the Sprint.
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