F1 News: Yuki Tsunoda Opens Up on 'Emotional' Daniel Ricciardo Talks After Shock VCARB Exit

Yuki Tsunoda shares emotional insights following Daniel Ricciardo’s unexpected departure from VCARB.

Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Visa Cash App RB and Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Visa Cash App RB talk to the crowd on the fan stage prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Azerbaijan at Baku City Circuit on September 13, 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) / Red Bull Content Pool

Yuki Tsunoda has opened up on an "emotional" conversation he had with Daniel Ricciardo after his shock exit from VCARB after the Singapore Grand Prix.

Ricciardo's departure was confirmed following the Singapore Grand Prix with the Australian driver being replaced with immediate effect by Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson. Whilst speaking to the media ahead of the Austin Grand Prix weekend, Tsunoda revealed his "emotional" conversation with Ricciardo, explaining:

“We spoke after the race in Singapore, we said thank you and that appreciate each other and I was a bit emotional, to be honest.

“He’s been a very good teammate and I think the driver I learn most out of any drivers.

“I saw a couple of his social media posts and he seems like he’s enjoying the time off a little bit.”

Ricciardo's career boasted eight Grand Prix victories and notable stints with teams such as Red Bull, Renault, and McLaren. Yet, his recent exit has been a shock. Before his final race in Singapore, Ricciardo acknowledged the possibility of it being his last professional drive.

In his absence, Lawson steps into a complex scenario. His elevation to Ricciardo's seat is an audition for his future within Formula 1. His six-race engagement is his opportunity to prove himself, especially with Red Bull's looming lineup decisions for 2025. A close examination of Sergio Perez’s position and its impact on Red Bull’s dynamics, including Max Verstappen's partnership, is reportedly underway. Meanwhile, Lawson's task is to perform to a standard that merits consideration for a permanent role.

Tsundoa also commented on the addition of Lawson, stating:

“We had this situation already with Daniel, so, I mean, to be honest. I got used to it and I don’t think there’s any point talking about it.

“I just have to keep proving myself and how I work throughout the race weeks, just keep focussing on what I have to do and those opportunities, it’s up to them and see how it goes.”

The Japanese driver continued:

“I don’t think it’s going to change the dynamic, I think Liam, it’s not the first time with our team and we’ve both experienced already, similar situations.

“I think what motivates us right now is to keep our position P6 until the end of the season and I’m sure Liam will do a good job as well.”

2024 Drivers' Championship: Current Standings

1. Max Verstappen - 331 points
2. Lando Norris - 279 points
3. Charles Leclerc - 245 points
4. Oscar Piastri - 237 points
5. Carlos Sainz - 190 points
6. Lewis Hamilton - 174 points
7. George Russell - 155 points
8. Sergio Perez - 144 points
9. Fernando Alonso - 62 points
10. Nico Hulkenberg - 24 points
11. Lance Stroll - 24 points
12. Yuki Tsunoda - 22 points
13. Alex Albon - 12 points
14. Daniel Ricciardo - 12 points
15. Pierre Gasly - 8 points
16. Oliver Bearman - 7 points
17. Kevin Magnussen - 6 points
18. Esteban Ocon - 5 points
19. Franco Colapinto - 4 points
20. Zhou Guanyu - 0 points
21. Logan Sargeant - 0 points
22. Valtteri Bottas - 0 points