Former Haas team boss, Günther Steiner, understands why Red Bull decided to let go of Daniel Ricciardo. According to Steiner, Red Bull’s decision to test Liam Lawson as a potential replacement for Sergio Pérez is a strategic move for the future, rather than retaining the Australian driver. However, he acknowledges that it’s never easy for a team to dismiss a driver.
After the Singapore Grand Prix, it was announced that Daniel Ricciardo would no longer be driving the VCARB01 in Austin. Liam Lawson, who had previously demonstrated his racing skills as Ricciardo’s replacement, will take over. Steiner agrees with Red Bull’s decision.
“Red Bull knew that if they didn’t put Liam in a car next year, he could have gone elsewhere,” Steiner stated in his column for Formula1.com. “They didn’t want to lose him. By deploying him now, they can better assess him for next year.”
Consequently, Ricciardo has to make way for the New Zealander. Steiner believes Ricciardo’s departure is justified, but admits that Formula 1 will miss him. “Ricciardo will be a loss, as many people have gotten to know him, especially through ‘Drive to Survive’ on Netflix. He has brought many new fans to Formula 1,” explains Steiner. “He’s a great character and a nice guy. Everyone got along with him. But this is Formula 1. You have to perform to survive.”
Always Difficult
Steiner, in his career as Haas team boss, has also had to let go of a driver. Mick Schumacher was replaced by Nico Hülkenberg in 2023. The former team boss, therefore, understands Red Bull’s hesitations.
“Deciding to change a driver, whether it’s during the season or for the next campaign, is really difficult,” Steiner explains. “From my experience at Haas, I know that the longer you wait, the harder it gets. It’s never nice to tell a driver that he’s out.”
