F1 News: RB confirm Japanese Grand Prix driver change as Daniel Ricciardo is REPLACED

F1 News & Gossip

RB confirm Japanese Grand Prix driver change as Ricciardo is REPLACED

Red Bull Junior Ayumu Iwasa is set to be given a huge opportunity at his home GP

By Shay Rogers.

Tuesday 26 March 2024 06:00

Daniel Ricciardo is set to be replaced by a Japanese driver at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka for Visa Cash App RB.

It has been a difficult start to the season for the Australian, who is yet to score a point or outqualify team-mate Yuki Tsunoda.

Article continues under video

In fact, his seat remains the subject of speculation regarding a full-time Formula 1 debut for Kiwi driver Liam Lawson.

If Ricciardo fails to pick up the pace, then not only does he wave goodbye to any hopes of a Red Bull drive in 2025 and beyond, but maybe to his F1 career too.

Helmut Marko helps to oversee Red Bull's talent pool

Ricciardo to be replaced

“On Friday, we will use our junior pilot Ayumu Iwasa, an all-nippon team, in training [practice],” said Marko.

“What's more, the Suzuka circuit should suit the Racing Bulls' car.”

Exciting times lie ahead for Japanese fans, with the last time that two drivers from their home nation occupied the grid together was at the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, when a fresh faced Kamui Kobayashi finished sixth for Toyota, and Kazuki Nakajima finished 13th for Williams.

Daniel Ricciardo Yuki Tsunoda Liam Lawson Japanese Grand Prix Visa Cash App RB Suzuka