Fri Sep 27 17:39:39 UTC 2024: ## Ricciardo Out, Lawson In: Red Bull Shakes Up Driver Lineup for Final Races

**Daniel Ricciardo’s Formula 1 journey has taken another turn as the eight-time Grand Prix winner was dropped by Red Bull for the remainder of the 2024 season.**

The 35-year-old Australian, who was brought back into the Red Bull fold midway through last season, has been replaced by Liam Lawson. The 22-year-old New Zealander, who previously served as Red Bull’s reserve driver, will be assessed over the remaining six races before the team finalizes their plans for 2025.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies acknowledged Ricciardo’s contributions, praising his “experience, talent, and fantastic attitude,” but ultimately, his performances did not meet expectations.

Ricciardo, a popular figure in the sport known for his jovial personality and driving skill, reflected on his career in a statement on Instagram, expressing gratitude to teams, individuals, and fans.

Lawson, who has experience in Formula 2 and Japan’s Super Formula series, returns to Red Bull after a brief stint last year, where he scored two points with a ninth-place finish at the Singapore Grand Prix.

**This change casts uncertainty over Red Bull’s 2025 driver lineup, with only Yuki Tsunoda’s seat confirmed.**

While Lawson’s promotion provides him an opportunity to secure a future with Red Bull, the team’s current struggles, particularly with Sergio Perez, add another layer of complexity. Perez, despite signing a new contract in May, has faced pressure throughout this season and remains under scrutiny.

**The final six races of the 2024 season kick off with the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, on October 18-20.** The upcoming races offer a crucial platform for Lawson to prove himself and potentially earn a permanent spot within the Red Bull family.

Read More