The 2022 Singapore Grand Prix marked Daniel Ricciardo’s final appearance in Formula 1, as Liam Lawson took over his seat at the Red Bull (RB) team for the last six races of the season. Lawson had initially stepped in as a substitute after Ricciardo fractured his hand during the Dutch Grand Prix, which came just two rounds into Ricciardo’s return to F1 after replacing Nyck de Vries.
Ricciardo was able to set the fastest lap at the Marina Bay race, offering a brief highlight in what had been a difficult comeback to the sport. This moment also seemed to serve as an unofficial farewell, as rumors circulated during the Singapore weekend that it would be his last race in F1. The subsequent replacement by Lawson for the next race in Austin confirmed these speculations, giving Lawson a chance to establish himself within Red Bull, positioning him for the 2025 season.
Lawson Reflects on the Challenge and Ricciardo’s Encouragement
Returning to Red Bull’s Racing Bulls team, Liam Lawson shared his thoughts on that particular weekend in Singapore. He described the situation as “extremely uncomfortable,” but praised Ricciardo’s supportive nature throughout the transition period. Lawson credited Ricciardo with being a positive influence from the moment he entered the team as an injury replacement to when Ricciardo reverted to a reserve driver role.
I mean for us it was obviously extremely uncomfortable,
Lawson reflected.
I think the only thing I took away from it was how much of a good person Daniel is and how he was to me through the whole journey from when I first came into this when he had his injury to going back to reserve.
Liam Lawson, RB F1 Team
He continued by emphasizing the respect he holds for Ricciardo and highlighted the continued good relationship between them. Following the Baku Grand Prix, Ricciardo sent Lawson a supportive message, demonstrating his encouragement even as Lawson progressed on his own path within Formula 1.
We had a very good relationship. We still do honestly and I think my only take-away from that weekend last year was just how much respect I have for him.
Shared Background and Personal Choices Amid Career Differences
Lawson pointed out that he and Ricciardo come from similar parts of the world, which creates a mutual understanding of the difficult journey to reach Formula 1. He acknowledged that their current situations in their careers are quite different and framed Ricciardo’s decision to move away from racing to pursue other interests as a personal one.
We’re from the same part of the world as well so it’s something that we probably both understand. It’s quite difficult to get to this point and we’re both very lucky.
…very different points of our careers
—Lawson described these differences, underlining the individual nature of Ricciardo’s choice to step back from competitive driving while Lawson strives to maintain his seat.
Lawson’s Determination to Secure a Seat Amid Rising Competition
Turning to his own future in F1, Lawson addressed rumors suggesting that Arvid Lindblad could partner him on the Racing Bulls lineup in 2026. Reflecting on his recent achievements, Lawson expressed pride in his fifth-place finish at Baku but quickly noted how his focus shifted to preparing for Singapore, demonstrating the relentless pressure drivers face to perform.
I think you enjoy the success, you enjoy the good moments, but it is crazy how quickly that mindset changes and flicks onto the next one.
He described the exhilaration of the Baku result and satisfaction with his race performance but stressed the rapid mental transition toward the next challenge. Lawson explained that this is especially true when fighting to retain a position on the team.
Baku was a great result and I was super stoked for the team, and I was stoked with how the race was. It felt like a great performance for me, but eery quickly within a few hours you’re already focused on the next one coming up.
I think naturally in my position as well, when I’m trying to secure a seat next year, it’s probably more natural to be thinking ahead more and trying to keep these results coming.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Lawson’s Formula 1 Career
Liam Lawson’s reflections underscore the challenging nature of the Liam Lawson F1 switch, marked by shifting team roles, physical setbacks, and the constant battle for placement. Ricciardo’s support during a difficult transition has left a positive impact on Lawson as he seeks to solidify his own place within the competitive Red Bull team environment.
Lawson’s candid acknowledgment of the pressure to maintain results and secure a racing seat highlights the volatile and uncertain landscape young drivers face in Formula 1. With the upcoming 2025 season approaching, the developments around Lawson and potential teammate Arvid Lindblad will be closely watched by fans and insiders alike, as the sport continues to evolve both on and off the track.
