Daniel Ricciardo admits he has “no control” over Liam Lawson’s F1 prospects

Daniel Ricciardo's future in F1 remains uncertain with Liam Lawson soon to test Red Bull's 2022 F1 car.

Daniel Ricciardo admits he has “no control” over Liam Lawson’s F1 prospects

Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson (via IMAGO)

Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo does not have a contract for the 2025 season just yet. In an interview, Christian Horner said the team’s shareholders wanted young drivers in their junior team, which might put Daniel Ricciardo’s seat in danger, as Yuki Tsunoda’s contract has already been extended.

Liam Lawson is set to test Red Bull’s 2022 F1 car in the coming days. Daniel Ricciardo knew that this test had been planned for a long time. He mentioned as drivers get older, they realize they can only control what is within their power. Ricciardo had highlighted that there were always things he couldn’t control, and it was important to focus on the things he could manage. The Australian addressed this perspective with experience and maturity, which helped him navigate situations more effectively.

I believe it's been planned for a while. In any case, it's one of those ones where also, I think the older you get, you understand that control the controllables.
Daniel Ricciardo said, as reported by speedcafe.com
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Ricciardo acknowledged that if Lawson performed exceptionally well during the test, it would be great for the 22-year-old himself. He highlighted that he doesn’t have any influence over the Kiwi’s performance and doesn’t wish him any bad performance. Daniel Ricciardo pointed out that he is currently in the race seat, so he is focused on maximizing his own performance and controlling the factors that are within his power. The Australian stressed the importance of concentrating on his own responsibilities and doing everything possible to perform at his best.

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If Liam goes and has an amazing test, like 100 percent, good for Liam. I've got no control over that, nor do I wish him poorly, not at all. I'm currently in the race seat, so I've got to do everything I can to control the things that I can.
Daniel Ricciardo added

Daniel Ricciardo considers no option other than RB

Daniel Ricciardo was asked whether he’s looking for a new team, as Red Bull might not extend his contract. Ricciardo mentioned he’s not looking for any team. He clarified that his statement wasn’t due to stubbornness or arrogance but rather because he genuinely isn’t considering other teams. The 35-year-old expressed his satisfaction with being back in the Red Bull family, highlighting that he truly enjoys his current situation.

I would say no. Not to be stubborn or arrogant about it, but I'm not looking anywhere else. I've said it, I really do enjoy being back in the family.
Daniel Ricciardo stated
Daniel Ricciardo
Daniel Ricciardo (via IMAGO)

Ricciardo mentioned that he enjoyed the teasing from Helmut Marko sometimes. He believed, Marko must be doing it to motivate Ricciardo to perform better. Ricciardo said this might sound casual but deep down actually cares about this a lot. The Australian reflected that he had reached a point where he accepted that outcomes were often beyond his control.

I weirdly do enjoy sometimes a little bit of pokes from Helmut, because I think it's also, it can also be a way to get me a little bit fired up and try and get the best out of me. I sound casual, I don't want to be casual about it, because obviously I care a lot.
Daniel Ricciardo added

Certainly, Daniel Ricciardo wants to stay with RB as he considers this team as a family. However, the teams plans are already designed which can cost Ricciardo his seat. Ricciardo is very cautious about his performance in upcoming races. He wanted to ensure he does his best in case they have decided to replace him.

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