Despite showing promise in his five substitute appearances in the 2023 season, Liam Lawson found himself back on the bench at Visa RB. Now, there’s a buzz in the paddock suggesting Lawson should replace Daniel Ricciardo, who has been consistently outperformed by Yuki Tsunoda. According to Visa RB CEO Peter Bayer, Lawson is ‘ready to step in’.
As the Austrian Grand Prix approached, it was Helmut Marko who offered a glimmer of hope to Liam Lawson’s fans. The 81-year-old advisor suggested that the shareholders have seen enough of Ricciardo. “We are a junior team and we need to act accordingly,” stated Marko. He added that Lawson would be ‘soon’ moved into the Visa RB.
CEO Peter Bayer’s Statement on Ricciardo’s Future
CEO Peter Bayer has nuanced the words of his fellow Austrian. During the race weekend in Spielberg, he revealed that Ricciardo has until the summer break to secure his seat. In the run-up to the second half of the season, Visa RB can then decide on his future. “Daniel (Ricciardo) is an important part of this team,” Bayer said. “He comes up with good ideas and sets high standards – this is good for Yuki (Tsunoda) and the rest of the team.”
Liam Lawson’s Potential Role
However, Ricciardo does not have certainty that he will finish his year with Visa RB. Bayer also confirms that the ‘honey badger’ has not yet convinced the team of his abilities. “He has not yet shown his best side,” the CEO noted. “In Miami and Montreal, he was competitive at times – we know he has the speed, but he will need to deliver results before we consider a new contract.”
Meanwhile, Liam Lawson waits in the Red Bull ranks. Many experts have not forgotten him after his impressive performances in the previous season. “Liam is ready to step in,” Bayer assured. “We want to go into the summer break calmly and then look at the possibilities. Helmut Marko, Christian Horner, Laurent Mekies, and the shareholders all have a say over the Visa seat. We all do not want to make a hasty decision.”
Upcoming Grand Prix of Austria
Read here everything about the upcoming Grand Prix of Austria.
