Despite being hopeful and fighting his way back into F1, Daniel Ricciardo’s output so far has been subpar. The Australian has suffered a great deal in the past few seasons. His comeback brought a smile to many F1 fans’ faces, however, his current output isn’t bringing anyone joy. The Visa Cash App RB man’s F1 career is on a downward trajectory once again with the Honey Badger struggling to even beat his teammate. On top of that, he will be replaced by Red Bull academy driver Ayumu Iwasa.

The Australian has failed to impress so far with his teammate Yuki Tsunoda outshining him at the moment. In the two-horse internal race to secure the highly sought-after Red Bull seat, Ricciardo is surely coming in second. Now, as reported by Speedweek, Dr. Helmut Marko has revealed he will not be taking part in the first practice session in Suzuka.

However, this isn’t a shock exclusion, it was pre-planned. Ricciardo will make way for Ayumu Iwasa for FP1 in the coming race weekend. The Japanese driver, as a Red Bull junior driver since 2021, will get his hands on the VCARB01 when the circus travels to his home.

Marko revealed, “On Friday we will use our young driver Ayumu Iwasa, an all-Nippon team, in training.” With Yuki Tsunoda keeping his spot throughout the weekend, this will mark the first time two Japanese drivers will be on track at the same since the 2009 Abu Dhabi GP.

Two Japanese drivers, in a Honda-powered car on the Suzuka Circuit? It will be a treat for the fans. However, fear not, as Daniel Ricciardo will return in the next session and get his much-needed track time. However, the Australian former champion believes no amount of track time will bring back the old Daniel.

Australian F1 champ believes the best of Daniel Ricciardo is past us

Ricciardo was a shadow of himself during his entire McLaren stint, except for the one Italian GP. However, after his mid-season nod for AlphaTauri and his performances, especially in Mexico, many believed the Australian regained his powers. Although the start of the new season has not helped Ricciardo’s case.

What’s worse is Alan Jones, the 1980 F1 world champion, believes Ricciardo is way past his prime and his best days are past him.

Trending

Liam Lawson’s Surprise Contract Clause Threatens Daniel Ricciardo’s RB Seat

April 24, 2024 11:15 AM EDT

F1 Rumor: Adrian Newey to Join Ferrari, Leaving Red Bull Amid Christian Horner-Helmut Marko Fiasco

April 25, 2024 05:55 PM EDT

“[Charles] Leclerc Doesn’t Care About Ferrari”: F1 Insider’s Brutal Blow to Fred Vasseur & Co. Has Racing Community Lashing Out

April 24, 2024 05:00 PM EDT

What Is Azzurro La Plata and Azzurro Dino? Significance of Ferrari’s Historic Change to a Blue Livery for Miami GP

April 24, 2024 04:52 PM EDT

F1 Rumor: Oliver Bearman to Join Haas as Nico Hulkenberg Leaves Seat Empty to Join Kick Sauber Team

April 26, 2024 10:45 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest F1 stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

“I hate to say it, but I think we have seen the best days (from Ricciardo),“ said Jones. “He has had his bum in a few decent cars, irrespective of what people say. The Alpine or the McLaren, the car that he is in right now… at the end of the day he has got to start beating his teammate for a start. I would love him to become super competitive and be up there challenging in the points, but I just think that maybe a couple of things have got to change before we see that.“

Daniel Ricciardo vs Oscar Piastri: Who Is the Bigger Hope of Australia in Formula 1?

As of right now, Jones stands corrected. However, the season is long and we might just see a different side of Ricciardo if he can get comfortable with his car and find his pace and the courage for the dive bombs.