Daniel Ricciardo sacked by F1 RB, replaced by Liam Lawson

Eight-time grand prix winner Daniel Ricciardo has been axed from his team RB, in what could be the end of his Formula 1 career.

The Australian was officially dropped from the Italian outfit following last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix after months of speculation. 

He will be replaced by New Zealand rising star Liam Lawson, who filled in for Ricciardo last season after the Australian broke his wrist.

“I’ve loved this sport my whole life. It’s wild and wonderful and been a journey,” the Australian wrote on social media following the team’s announcement.

“To the teams and individuals that have played their part, thank you. To the fans who love the sport sometimes more than me … thank you. 

“It’ll always have its highs and lows but it’s been fun and truth be told I wouldn’t change it.”

Ricciardo, who made a return to F1 during the middle of last season when the team dumped rookie Nick De Vries, had at times during 2024 been linked with rejoining Red Bull Racing as Max Verstappen’s teammate.

But the Australian, who has also driven for Renault and McLaren, was unable to produce good enough results this season to secure his spot on the grid going forward.

Leading into Singapore the rumour mill was in overdrive that Ricciardo’s job was under threat.

Needing a strong result, the Australian could only manage 16th fastest in qualifying, and 18th in the grand prix. 

RB team principal Laurent Mekies praised the Australian as he exited F1 for the second time.

“He has brought a lot of experience and talent to the Team with a fantastic attitude, which has helped everyone to develop and foster a tight team spirit.”

Ricciardo’s time in F1 looked up after the Singapore Grand Prix, with the Australian holding back tears during media engagements and his team giving him a guard of honour.

Tributes across the F1 world have been made to Ricciardo, who debuted in 2010.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who enjoyed great battles with Ricciardo, said it was an honour to compete with him.

“You leave a legacy of always being yourself, which in this sport is never easy,” Hamilton wrote on social media.

“You’ve taken it all with the biggest smile and I salute you for it. There is so much more for you up ahead and I can’t wait to see what you do next.”

Hamilton’s Mercedes teammate George Russell also posted to his social media accounts to thank Ricciardo for his time in F1.

“F1 won’t be the same without you, mate. All the best on the next adventure.”

As the F1 world reacts to the exit of Ricciardo, Lawson now gets his permanent opportunity in F1.

The Kiwi prodigy made his debut last season at the Dutch Grand Prix, after Ricciardo had broken his wrist during practice. 

Lawson competed in five grands prix in 2023 and was impressive, putting pressure on Ricciardo and RB teammate Yuki Tsunoda to perform well this season. 

“F1 won’t be the same without you, mate. All the best on the next adventure, Ricciardo Daniel.

“I’ve dreamed of being a Formula One driver since I was a kid, and I’m very happy to say that dream is finally coming true,” Lawson wrote.

 “I’m extremely grateful and excited to get to work.”

F1’s next race is the United States Grand Prix, held in Austin, Texas, on Monday October 21 at 5am, AEST.