Lawson Misses Ricciardo's Presence in F1 Paddock

Liam Lawson has expressed that he misses seeing Daniel Ricciardo in the Formula 1 paddock, highlighting their continued close relationship despite Ricciardo's departure from the sport. Lawson, who unexpectedly replaced Ricciardo for the remainder of the 2024 season, speaks fondly of the Australian's character and ongoing support.

Why it matters:

• This reflects a rare display of genuine camaraderie in the high-stakes world of F1, where driver changes often lead to strained relationships.
• It underscores Ricciardo's respected character within the paddock, even after a challenging exit from Racing Bulls.
• Lawson's comments humanize the competitive environment, showing personal bonds can transcend professional rivalries and team changes.

The Details:

• Ricciardo's last F1 appearance was at the 2024 Singapore GP, after which he was replaced by Lawson for the rest of the season.
• Lawson had previously deputized for Ricciardo at the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, where he scored his first F1 points with a ninth-place finish and outqualified Max Verstappen.
• Continued Friendship: Speaking to Speedcafe in Singapore, Lawson confirmed he still speaks with Ricciardo, describing him as a "genuinely good guy."
  • Lawson emphasized the respect he gained for Ricciardo during their transition, noting how supportive Ricciardo was despite the circumstances.
• Supportive Messages: Ricciardo sent Lawson a congratulatory message after the recent Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Lawson achieved his best-ever F1 finish of fifth place.
• Shared Background: Lawson also highlighted their common roots from the same part of the world, acknowledging the shared difficulty and luck involved in reaching F1.
• Ricciardo's Current Endeavors: Since leaving F1, Ricciardo has been focusing on his karting series in the UK and other personal ventures, describing this period as a "retirement from at least the world I was living in."

What's next:

While Ricciardo enjoys his time away from F1, Lawson continues his campaign, aiming to solidify his place in the sport. His comments suggest that the personal respect between drivers can endure even through the most competitive and challenging transitions, setting a positive example for sportsmanship in F1.