Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has revealed Daniel Ricciardo was aware that retaining his Formula 1 spot was dependent on proving he merits a promotion from RB.
RB has announced that Ricciardo will not return once the season resumes in Austin next month to complete the remaining six races as Liam Lawson will replace him.
Ricciardo’s demeanour post-race in Singapore last weekend implied that he was conscious that it was his final outing, while RB also indicated that it was a possibility.
READ MORE: Liam Lawson to replace Daniel Ricciardo at RB for remainder of F1 2024
The Australian brought the curtain down on his second stint with the Faenza-based squad with a late pit stop onto new tyres to take the 17th fastest lap of his career.
Despite criticism regarding how Ricciardo’s exit was managed, Marko has disclosed that the ex-Red Bull driver was told in advance as he signed out with a fitting feat.
“[The timing] was related to a variety of factors and obligations,” Marko told Motorsport-Total.
“He was informed, and the worthy farewell performance was, I think, the fastest lap.
“That still showed what potential he has, not continuously and not at the level that would have justified him coming to Red Bull Racing, but that was an impeccable performance.”
Ricciardo failed to hit Red Bull standards
Ricciardo had reiterated on numerous occasions since his comeback to the Red Bull stable last term that his desire was to return to the drive that he vacated in 2018.
But while Sergio Perez’s woes crafted a possible opening, Ricciardo was unable to capitalise as he ended 10 points behind less experienced team-mate Yuki Tsunoda.
Marko has explained that the decision to drop Ricciardo emanated from the acknowledgement that he wasn’t operating at a level that warranted a step up to Red Bull.
“I think it was clearly communicated that he has to be significantly better than Yuki Tsunoda and he only managed that in a few races,” Marko highlighted.
“So it was clear that this story of the prodigal son rejoining Red Bull Racing unfortunately didn’t work out.
“He said very well that he is at peace with himself, and he has come to terms with the situation and we will see what his plans for the future are.”
Marko touts potential ambassador role
Ricciardo has ruled out retrieving his role as a Red Bull reserve driver, but Marko has suggested that an ambassadorial position could be an option that is discussed.
“He is one of the most popular Formula 1 drivers, especially in the USA,” the Austrian, 81, acknowledged.
“[He] wants to have time to consider his entire future at all”
“Will[he] enter any other racing category? I don’t think so. And on the other hand, if he no longer drives actively, does he even want these PR activities?”
READ MORE: Logical outcome, farcical handling: Red Bull marred Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 exit
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