For the second straight season, Daniel Ricciardo will not be part of the grid at the Australian Grand Prix. The beloved Perth-born driver, who was let go by VCARB (now Racing Bulls) after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, finds himself without a seat once again. His departure paved the way for Liam Lawson, who seized a six-race audition and ultimately earned a coveted spot at Red Bull for the 2025 season.
Despite being effectively pushed into an early retirement from Formula 1, Ricciardo handled the situation with dignity and grace, earning admiration across the paddock.
Liam Lawson Praises Ricciardo’s Class
Liam Lawson, who replaced Ricciardo, spoke highly of the veteran driver’s conduct throughout the transition.
“I actually spoke to Daniel a lot when it was happening,” Lawson shared in an interview with GQ. “I will always have so much respect for him.
“Throughout the whole ordeal, from when the rumours started to when they were confirmed, he never said a bad word about or towards me. He never made it about me and him, because at the end of the day, it wasn’t our decision. It’s up to the team, and what they decide to do.
“He was so good to me, through all of it. Fast forward to December, when I got the Red Bull seat, and Daniel is still the only driver, past or present, to send me a message about it, congratulating me. It says a lot about him as a person.”
Australian GP Still Features Homegrown Talent
While Ricciardo’s absence will be felt by fans in Melbourne, Australia will still have two home drivers on the grid.
Oscar Piastri, driving for McLaren, enters the weekend as a genuine contender for victory. Following an impressive pre-season test in Bahrain, McLaren has emerged as one of the leading teams, positioning Piastri as a potential World Championship challenger.
The second Australian, Jack Doohan, is set to make just his second Formula 1 start. The 22-year-old was promoted by Alpine to replace Esteban Ocon, who moved to Haas. However, Doohan faces significant pressure early in the season. His contract reportedly includes an exit clause within the first six races, and with Franco Colapinto signed as a reserve driver, his seat is far from secure.
High Stakes for Doohan in Melbourne
Flavio Briatore played a key role in bringing Colapinto to Enstone, and speculation suggests Alpine may not hesitate to make an early switch if Doohan struggles. After a difficult debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the young Australian needs a strong performance at his home race to solidify his place in the team.
As Formula 1 heads to Melbourne, Ricciardo's absence is a poignant reminder of how quickly the sport moves on. Yet, his legacy of sportsmanship and camaraderie remains firmly intact.