UNITED KINGDOM: Red Bull Racing’s Team Principal, Christian Horner, has shed light on the likelihood of Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo making a comeback at the Qatar Grand Prix following his recent injury hiatus.
Ricciardo’s absence from the track was triggered by a broken metatarsal sustained during a practice session at Zandvoort, where he avoided a collision with Oscar Piastri’s McLaren.
Despite this setback, Ricciardo’s spirits remain high as he looks forward to his assured return for the 2024 season with Red Bull’s sister team, AlphaTauri.
In an interview after the Japanese Grand Prix, Horner shared his insights on the potential return, stating, “I’d say probably less likely than likely at the moment.” He emphasized the importance of not rushing Ricciardo’s recuperation, given his secure position for the upcoming season.
Horner further elaborated, “His recuperation is going well. But, you know, he’s fixed in the seat for next year; does he need to rush a hasty return to Qatar? Whereas maybe another couple of weeks for Austin, which is a hell of a bumpy circuit anyway, it might be better to use that time as preparation for Austin.”
The decision regarding Ricciardo’s return will be influenced by his upcoming simulator session, following which the team will make an informed choice. Meanwhile, young talent Liam Lawson, who admirably filled in for Ricciardo, will transition into a reserve and test driver role for the upcoming season.
While there has been speculation regarding Lawson’s future with either AlphaTauri or Red Bull, Horner clarified, “There’s no guarantee of anything in life.” Horner commended Lawson’s exceptional performance during Ricciardo’s absence, expressing confidence in his potential for the 2025 season.
He noted, “He’s done exactly what we could have asked for, in terms of grabbing the opportunity and in Daniel’s absence to show his capability, and that’s turned some heads.” Lawson’s journey in the world of Formula 1 continues to be one to watch with keen interest.
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