By Joe Murphy
Daniel Ricciardo is reportedly at risk of being replace for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, after a series of disappointing results.
Whilst teammate Yuki Tsunoda scored a remarkable six points, Ricciardo found himself not only out of the points, but not really anywhere near them. It is now being revealed that Liam Lawson is waiting in the wings and is ready for the call up for F1 following an impressive stint in last season’s campaign.
Helmut Marko has confirmed that Lawson will be in Ricciardo’s car for FP1 as the Honda Engine powered car returns to its official home. Is this a sign of things to come or just to give Liam some more experience and Daniel a rest? Well, it’s not unheard of for reserve drivers to fill in for practice sessions, but the Australian needs results and he needs them soon.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that Ricciardo has been given an ultimatum that could be as short as two races long. However, it would be a surprise to see a driver change this early into the season, especially of such a veteran racer. However, as we saw last year with the exact same team, RB aren’t afraid of marking the big and difficult decisions.
If Ricciardo does get let go, you’d have to think his chance of racing for Red Bull next year, disappears.
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