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Following Daniel Ricciardo's recent exit from Formula 1, speculation is rife about which drivers might follow him out of the sport. Assuming Zhou Guanyu and Kevin Magnussen are already on the chopping block, here are five drivers whose futures in F1 look uncertain. Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team (RB) have announced that Australian star driver Daniel Ricciardo will be leaving the team with immediate effect. Liam Lawson the Red Bull junior driver has been announced as his replacement. After being stranded for the 2023 season following his exit from McLaren, Daniel Ricciardo joined AlphaTauri (formerly known as Red Bull's sister team) mid-season to replace Nyck De Vries, who was seen as underperforming. Ricciardo's contract with the team was set to expire at the end of the season, and he had been linked to a potential return to Red Bull. However, AlphaTauri decided to replace him early.
1. Sergio Perez
Sergio Perez’s position at Red Bull has come under scrutiny this season. Despite being a veteran driver, he finds himself significantly trailing teammate Max Verstappen—currently over 180 points behind. His contract reportedly includes performance clauses, which could allow Red Bull to replace him if he continues to underperform. With Liam Lawson showing promise as Ricciardo’s replacement, Perez might soon face the reality of losing his seat, potentially pushing him toward retirement.
2. Yuki Tsunoda
Yuki Tsunoda is having his best season yet, but questions remain about his long-term viability in F1. As Red Bull's plans unfold, the anticipated move to Aston Martin may not materialize if he doesn’t fit the team’s vision, which has historically favored experienced champions. If Tsunoda fails to secure a strong position in the midfield or doesn't demonstrate consistent performance, he could end up as a reserve driver, reducing his chances of staying in the sport.
3. Valtteri Bottas
Valtteri Bottas has signed a one-year contract extension with Sauber, but perceptions about his age and effectiveness are complicating his future. Critics argue that he’s no longer a contender, and with Audi entering F1 in 2026, they may seek more dynamic talent. Bottas’s current dominance over his teammate Zhou Guanyu suggests he still has the skills, but if Audi decides to overhaul the lineup, Bottas could be at risk of being ousted.
4. Jack Doohan
Jack Doohan has been elevated to a permanent seat at Alpine, but his promotion hasn’t come with widespread enthusiasm. Team principal Flavio Briatore remarked that the choice of Gasly's teammate is secondary to the car’s performance. Should Alpine struggle to compete in the coming seasons, and if Doohan fails to consistently match Gasly’s results, the team might look to replace him with a more seasoned driver, especially with new regulations approaching in 2026 that could attract a different caliber of talent.
5. Fernando Alonso
Fernando Alonso, nearing 45, has defied expectations by remaining competitive. However, with the 2026 regulations on the horizon, his age might lead teams to consider younger options. Aston Martin could prioritize securing a future star, especially if a high-profile driver like Max Verstappen becomes available. Alonso’s connection with Adrian Newey might bolster his standing, but if performance wanes, he could find himself at the center of a team reshuffle.
