Ricciardo faces a critical phase with Red Bull as the threat from Lawson looms, putting his F1 future on the line.
Daniel Ricciardo stated he is not experiencing “unreasonable pressure” from Red Bull, as he insists that his results will determine whether he retains his place in Formula 1.
Ricciardo faces the remaining nine races of the season without defined prospects for the next year, while Red Bull considers its options for its two teams in 2025.
The Australian has been seen as the most likely option if Red Bull chose to dismiss Sergio Perez, but he could also lose his seat at RB F1 to Liam Lawson.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko earlier this month claimed Lawson was guaranteed a seat next season, though team boss Christian Horner has since tempered that statement by discussing a possible loan to Audi F1.
Ricciardo is unfazed by the continuing Lawson threat, as he is adamant about remaining on the grid as long as he is productive on the track.
“I’m going to keep making it all about me in the sense that if I perform, they’ll find no reason to do anything,” Ricciardo said today at Monza.
“And ultimately, that’s where I’ll stop. I know that if I perform, then I’m good. So if I focus on myself, it shouldn’t affect me. And that’s what I’m focusing on.”
Ricciardo says that Marko’s comments have not added extra pressure, as his busy schedule means he doesn’t have time to dwell on them.
“I think I’m probably used to it. But honestly, it’s in the media where I often hear them. Not face to face. So, when you’re younger, you’re always a bit more curious. What do people think of me or what are they saying? But at some point, you realize maybe now the weekends are busier.”
“The sport is more engaging, more popular. There are so many things being said and thrown around that it’s probably impossible to keep track of everything. So yes, I think, and it’s not for the media or anything, that I need to focus on myself. And performance is key.”
“So, what someone says doesn’t really matter. What matters is what my hands and feet are doing in the cockpit and that’s where I’m putting all my energy.”
The Australian also denied receiving an ultimatum about his future, noting that what is documented in the media tends to be exaggerated.
“Honestly, it’s as if I haven’t faced, let’s say, unreasonable pressure. I haven’t had the hand on the shoulder pulling me into the room and saying, ‘Hey, do this or else…’ But listen, I also know what’s required of me.”
“Maybe that tough conversation isn’t necessary because, again, I’ve known Helmut for a long time in the system. So we all know what’s required. But has he put extra pressure on me or been unreasonable or unfair in anything? No, not at all.”
“So I think what is said, maybe what he says in the media or something else is a bit more pronounced, but I don’t feel anything more from his part.”
Meanwhile, Ricciardo is optimistic about having the last nine races of this season to prove his right to continue with either of the teams supported by Red Bull next season. Red Bull has talked about making a decision by September for Lawson, before the end of his option on the New Zealander.
When asked if he was 100% sure of participating in all the remaining events, he replied: “Yes. I mean yes. Am I? I haven’t been at RB F1 long enough. Who really knows except my bosses?”
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Ricciardo’s Future at Stake in Red Bull Races Ricciardo’s Future at Stake in Red Bull Races
