Helmut Marko is not one to beat around the bush. Initially indifferent about Visa RB’s lineup, the Austrian’s stance hardened after the Spanish Grand Prix. According to Marko, Daniel Ricciardo will soon have to make way for Liam Lawson. The 36-year-old Australian, who has been underwhelming in recent weeks, no longer has the option of moving up to Red Bull.
We remember Liam Lawson from the five races he drove in 2023 for the then AlphaTauri – the reserve driver had to replace an injured Daniel Ricciardo. Lawson made a strong impression during his debut and has since been waiting for his chance to permanently step into Formula 1. A permanent swap with Ricciardo seems most likely – the ‘honey badger’ has rarely been able to compete with teammate Yuki Tsunoda this year and can no longer move up to the main team, Red Bull.
Liam Lawson Soon to Take the Seat
Ricciardo has been under pressure for some time. Many fans and experts would have already replaced the Australian with Liam Lawson. Former Formula 1 driver Nyck de Vries had to clear the field last year after ten mediocre Grands Prix – Ricciardo has now raced nine times. Helmut Marko believes it won’t be long before the eight-time race winner is also sacrificed.
“The shareholders have made it clear that Visa RB is a junior team, so we have to act accordingly,” Marko recently said to Kleine Zeutung. “The goal was first to see if Ricciardo could move up to Red Bull – that seat is now for Pérez, so that’s no longer going through. We will have to deploy a young driver again soon. That is of course Liam Lawson.”
