VCARB F1 Team has officially announced that Liam Lawson will replace Daniel Ricciardo for the remaining six races of the 2024 season. The decision, which follows weeks of speculation about Ricciardo’s future, solidifies Lawson’s role for the remainder of the year. The opportunity provides the young New Zealander with a golden opportunity to secure his place in F1.
The saga surrounding Ricciardo’s future came to the spotlight during the lead-up to last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix. Rumors of a potential driver change dominated the conversation. Now, those rumors have been confirmed. Lawson will step into the VCARB car starting from the upcoming United States Grand Prix. Lawson will be alongside Yuki Tsunoda for the remainder of the season.
A Second Shot for Lawson
Lawson, 22, is no stranger to the VCARB F1 setup. He first debuted for the team (then known as AlphaTauri) in 2023, filled in for Ricciardo after the Australian driver broke his hand during practice at the Dutch Grand Prix. Lawson impressed during his five-race stint last year, even scoring points with a ninth-place finish in Singapore. This made him a standout performer among the Red Bull junior drivers.
Now, with another chance to prove himself, Lawson has a crucial window to cement his spot in F1. His performance in the remaining six Grands Prix will be heavily scrutinized, as both Red Bull and VCARB weigh their options for their 2025 driver line-ups. While no confirmation has been made about Lawson’s future beyond this season, his showing alongside Tsunoda could play a pivotal role in determining whether he secures a full-time seat in either team.
Ricciardo’s Future in Doubt
The decision to replace Ricciardo has raised questions about the Australian’s future in Formula 1. Once regarded as one of the sport’s most exciting and talented drivers, Ricciardo’s career has been on a downward trajectory since his move away from Red Bull in 2018. Despite brief flashes of brilliance, such as his 2021 Italian Grand Prix win for McLaren, Ricciardo has struggled to regain his top form in recent years.
His return to the Red Bull family at VCARB was seen as a chance for redemption. A series of setbacks, including his injury last year, have made it difficult for the Australian to get back into his groove. Lawson’s impressive form during his substitute appearances last season, coupled with Ricciardo’s consistency struggles likely influenced Red Bull’s decision to give Lawson a second chance.
It seems likely that this could mark the end of Ricciardo’s F1 career. After seven career victories and no plans to join a new team as of yet, fans may be saying goodbye to one of the grid’s most beloved figures.
The Battle for 2025 Begins
For Lawson, the remaining six races offer not only an opportunity to prove himself against Tsunoda. This is also a chance to stake a claim for a coveted Red Bull seat in the future. With Red Bull keeping its options open for 2025, Lawson’s performance in the tail end of the 2024 season will be crucial in shaping his future in the sport.
As F1 heads to the United States, all eyes will be on Liam Lawson as he takes on the task of filling Ricciardo’s shoes. With six races remaining, Lawson has everything to gain. Red Bull will be watching closely to see if the young New Zealander is the future of their team.
