F1 News Today: Ricciardo’s Exit Sends Shockwaves as Horner Faces Uncertain F….readmore 

Formula 1 is once again caught up in the complexities surrounding Daniel Ricciardo’s career, as his recent departure from AlphaTauri and uncertain future within the Red Bull setup has triggered fresh speculation and internal pressure. Once regarded as a key figure in Red Bull’s lineup, Ricciardo’s current trajectory is shaping up to have wider consequences—not just for his own prospects, but also for the team’s leadership.
Ricciardo, who returned to the Red Bull family via its sister team AlphaTauri in mid-2023, was seen by many as making a strategic comeback, possibly aiming to reclaim a seat at the main Red Bull team alongside reigning World Champion Max Verstappen. However, his performances since returning haven’t been consistent enough to lock in that opportunity, and by late 2024, he was replaced at AlphaTauri by young talent Liam Lawson.
Despite losing his seat, Ricciardo’s presence remains a topic of discussion within Red Bull. Christian Horner, the team principal, has stated publicly that he would like Ricciardo to remain part of the Red Bull family, even in an ambassadorial or reserve role. At the same time, Horner has kept the door open for Ricciardo to fight for a main seat again in 2025—if his form justifies it.
However, this situation has created friction within the team. With Sergio Pérez’s contract coming to an end in 2024 and his on-track performance under increasing scrutiny, Ricciardo was widely considered a likely replacement. But Lawson’s rise and Ricciardo’s underwhelming comeback have complicated that path.
As the driver puzzle unfolds, Christian Horner’s own position is also becoming more fragile. With ongoing scrutiny surrounding decisions in driver management and internal team politics—fueled by off-track controversies and boardroom dynamics—Horner’s future at the helm of Red Bull Racing isn’t as secure as it once seemed.
The interplay between Ricciardo’s uncertain return, Lawson’s emergence, and Pérez’s inconsistent form leaves Red Bull with difficult choices. More than a simple driver shuffle, these moves could redefine the team’s direction for the coming years.
In the end, Ricciardo’s exit has set off a ripple effect that could reshape Red Bull Racing—from its driver lineup to its leadership structure—putting both Ricciardo and Horner’s futures in question.