Daniel Ricciardo’s expected exit from Formula 1 has stirred intense emotions, following heavy speculation after the Singapore Grand Prix. The 34-year-old Australian driver, known for his infectious personality and long career, is rumored to be losing his seat, possibly to Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson who has been waiting in the wings for this moment. Ricciardo, with tears in his eyes following the race, has opened up on his feelings surrounding this difficult year.
"The cockpit is something that, um, I got very used to for many years," Ricciardo revealed to the F1TV broadcast. "I just wanted to savour the moment."
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future, the former Red Bull driver made it clear how purposeful his return to the grid had been after parting ways with McLaren.
"I always said I don't want to come back just to be on the grid, I want to try and fight back at the front and get back with Red Bull," he explained. However, acknowledging the realities he faced, he added, "Obviously it didn't come to fruition so then I also have to ask myself the question ‘well, then what else can I achieve and what else is there to really go for?’"
With the anticipation of his F1 career’s end, he reflected a sense of accomplishment.
"I put my best foot forward, let's say the fairytale ending didn't happen, but I also have to look back on what it's been. Thirteen or so years and I'm proud," Ricciardo added.
The fans, recognizing what Ricciardo has contributed to the sport over the last 13 years, voted him Driver of the Day after his Singapore campaign.
"Typically the driver of the day is not something us drivers look too much into, but today I can say it's something I'm appreciative of. That one today means a little something."
Despite finishing 18th in the race, his performance was marked by setting the fastest lap, stealing the extra point away from his former teammate Lando Norris. For Max Verstappen, this means he can clinch the championship by simply finishing second behind Lando Norris in the subsequent races, including sprint formats.
No official confirmation has been released from Red Bull Racing about Ricciardo's seat. Yet, the F1 community and Ricciardo himself are bracing for possible news.
"I have to be prepared for this maybe being it. Let’s say I’m at peace with it," he said.
2024 Singapore Grand Prix Results
1. Lando Norris
2. Max Verstappen
3. Oscar Piastri
4. George Russell
5. Charles Leclerc
6. Lewis Hamilton
7. Carlos Sainz
8. Fernando Alonso
9. Nico Hulkenberg
10. Sergio Perez
11. Franco Colapinto
12. Yuki Tsunoda
13. Esteban Ocon
14. Lance Stroll
15. Zhou Guanyu
16. Valtteri Bottas
17. Pierre Gasly
18. Daniel Ricciardo - Fastest Lap
19. Kevin Magnussen - DNF
20. Alex Albon - DNF
