Horner makes Ricciardo call after Red Bull driver lineup discussion… read more
Red Bull Formula 1 boss Christian Horner has made a surprising revelation regarding Daniel Ricciardo’s future in the sport. The Australian racing star was dropped from Red Bull’s junior team, Racing Bulls, last year after failing to deliver the desired results. This decision came as a shock to many, especially considering Ricciardo’s impressive performance history with Red Bull’s main team between 2014 and 2018.
Horner faced a challenging year in 2024, both on and off the track. His main Red Bull team slipped down the order, finishing in third place despite another drivers’ title victory for star driver Max Verstappen. F1 rivals McLaren and Ferrari leapfrogged the former constructors’ champions, and with Verstappen practically carrying the team alone after a further dip in performance for team-mate Sergio Perez, Horner’s outfit finished the year with 589 points.
The lack of results was not limited to the main team, as Racing Bulls finished way down in eighth in the constructors’ standings despite a change in their driver lineup midway through last season. Ricciardo was handed a career lifeline in 2024 when he returned to the sport as a full-time driver with Racing Bulls. However, his performances did not meet expectations, and he was eventually replaced by Liam Lawson with just six races to go in the championship.
Ricciardo’s future in the sport remains uncertain, with no seat confirmed for the 2025 season. He has teased retirement, been closely linked with a seat at the pending Cadillac F1 team, and been encouraged to try his hand at broadcasting instead. Amidst this uncertainty, Horner was recently asked to participate in a lighthearted game of “kiss, marry, kill?” with a lineup consisting of three Red Bull drivers: Verstappen, Ricciardo, and the now-retired Sebastian Vettel.
While Horner initially seemed to consider the question, he eventually evaded it, responding, “I can’t play games like that.” This reaction is not surprising, given the sensitive nature of Ricciardo’s situation and the potential implications of Horner’s response. By avoiding the question, Horner demonstrated his professionalism and commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with Ricciardo, despite the Australian driver’s uncertain future in the sport.
The situation highlights the complexities and challenges of managing a Formula 1 team. Horner must balance the needs and expectations of his drivers, team members, and sponsors while making difficult decisions that impact the team’s performance and reputation. As the 2025 season approaches, Horner and Red Bull will be focused on regaining their competitive edge and returning to the top of the constructors’ championship.
In contrast, Ricciardo’s future remains uncertain, and he will be exploring various options to remain involved in the sport. Whether he chooses to pursue a seat with the Cadillac F1 team, ventures into broadcasting, or decides to retire, Ricciardo’s legacy as a talented and dedicated Formula 1 driver is secure. As the sport continues to evolve and new challenges arise, the uncertainty surrounding Ricciardo’s future serves as a reminder of the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Formula 1.
