Source – RacingNews365
In 2025, Daniel Ricciardo might be with Red Bull, RB, or not be in Formula One at all.
In the swirling world of Formula 1, where rumors and speculations often overshadow the on-track action, Daniel Ricciardo has come forward to address swirling whispers about his future with Red Bull. Amidst the tension surrounding the team’s driver lineup for the 2025 season, Ricciardo has firmly denied any claims that he has been given an ultimatum by Helmut Marko regarding his place in the team.
Ricciardo, currently one of three drivers in contention for two coveted seats at Red Bull, finds himself in a high-stakes battle with Sergio Perez and Liam Lawson. Marko, the influential motorsport advisor known for his unwavering commitment to promoting young talent, has openly expressed his interest in elevating Lawson to a full-time RB seat alongside the already-confirmed Yuki Tsunoda. This move aligns with Red Bull’s long-standing tradition of nurturing emerging drivers. Meanwhile, Ricciardo, who has previously raced for the team and delivered notable performances, has been linked with a potential return to the senior team, possibly replacing Perez, who has struggled with consistency.
The complexity of the situation is heightened by Ricciardo’s current form, which has not been stellar. With just 12 points amassed this season, his performance lags behind Tsunoda’s 22 points. Despite a series of first-lap incidents and a season that has not quite met expectations, Ricciardo remains resolute and focused on the task at hand. He has emphatically dismissed any suggestions of pressure from Marko.
In a recent interview, Ricciardo addressed the rumors head-on. “Honestly, I haven’t had any, let’s say, unreasonable pressure,” he clarified. “I haven’t had a hand on the shoulder to pull me into a room and say: ‘Hey, do this or else.’ But I also know what is required, so maybe this tough talk doesn’t need to be had, because I’ve known Helmut and the system a long time, so we all know what is required.” His comments suggest that while he acknowledges the competitive nature of his position, he feels no additional stress or pressure from Marko that would constitute an ultimatum.
Ricciardo’s experience in the sport is considerable. As one of the most seasoned drivers on the grid, he has navigated the highs and lows of F1 with a depth of insight that comes from years of racing. Despite being the third-oldest and fourth-most experienced driver in terms of age and starts, behind Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, Ricciardo remains undeterred by the speculation. His focus is firmly on performance, rather than the media narrative that often surrounds his career.
Reflecting on his journey since his debut in 2011, Ricciardo emphasized his commitment to his craft over any external chatter. “I am probably used to it, but a lot of the time, when you are young, you are always a bit more curious about what people think of me or say,” he noted. “But at some point, you realize that the weekends are getting busier, the sport is more popular and there is much more being said and thrown around so it is probably impossible to keep up with everything.”
His pragmatic approach underscores a shift in focus. “It’s not anything with the media, but I have to focus on myself and performance is everything,” Ricciardo continued. “What matters is what my hands and feet are doing in the cockpit, and I am putting all my energy into that.” This mindset highlights Ricciardo’s dedication to his performance and his determination to let his driving speak louder than the speculation that surrounds him.
As the driver lineup for 2025 continues to be a topic of intense discussion, Ricciardo’s denial of any ultimatum from Marko should be a reminder of the complex dynamics at play within the sport. With the season unfolding and crucial races ahead, Ricciardo remains steadfast in his focus, aiming to prove his worth and secure his place in the competitive world of Formula 1. The coming months will be pivotal in shaping the future of Red Bull’s driver lineup, and Ricciardo’s performance on the track will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s decision-making process.
