Ricciardo reveals EXCLUSIVE 'behind the scenes' of Red Bull axing

Recently axed Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo has lifted the lid on what is likely to be his final race as part of the Red Bull family.

Despite rumours that the Aussie star was in contention to replace Sergio Perez at the main Red Bull team, the pendulum swung against Ricciardo's after he failed to prove himself at junior team RB- leading to his immediate dismissal.

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Throughout the 2024 season, Ricciardo was frequently outperformed by team-mate Yuki Tsunoda, who himself is now reportedly fighting for a promotion to drive at Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen.

With Perez having woefully missed the mark of his team's expectations this season, the Mexican driver is fighting for his seat despite Red Bull confirming his contract until the end of 2026 earlier this year.

No strangers to a mid-season swap, Perez is anything but safe at Christian Horner's outfit and could even be faced with a similar fate to Ricciardo if his form doesn't improve.

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Will Ricciardo return to F1?

Since the 35-year-old was replaced with immediate effect at RB by Liam Lawson, his options for a return to the F1 grid look thin.

Having himself admitted he would be interested in a racing career back home in Australia or across the pond with NASCAR offers being touted, F1 fans will be unlikely to spot Ricciardo on the grid anytime soon unless perhaps through a punditry opportunity.

Reflecting on what is likely to have been his final race with F1 in Singapore, Ricciardo took to Instagram to share some 'behind the scenes' snaps of the grand prix weekend.

Followers and famous faces alike flooded to the comments to express their dismay at the fan favourite's early exit, including former Red Bull star and F1 pundit David Coulthard who said: "Don’t mind me…just cutting onions…"

Another tribute was left by Ricciardo's home gp, with the Instagram page for ausgp reflecting the mood by commenting: "I can’t do this today 😭🇦🇺".

The Aussie fans still have one home star to root for when F1 returns to Albert Park next season in the form of Oscar Piastri, with whom Ricciardo revealed he had undertaken a helmet swap, leaving an inspirational message and his signature to his fellow countryman, asking the young star to continue flying the flag.

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A post shared by Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo)

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