Daniel Ricciardo Rumoured as Potential Replacement in Formula 1 Shake-Up – World in Sport

Jul 11, 2023 10:21 am

In recent news, it has been reported that AlphaTauri is planning to part ways with Nyck de Vries due to his disappointing performances in the Formula 1 season. 

Speculations suggest that Daniel Ricciardo, a fan-favourite driver, may be brought in as his replacement. Ralf Schumacher, a former Formula 1 star and brother of motorsports legendary Michael Schumacher, believes that De Vries has essentially been fired already and will be replaced once the sport enters its summer break.

As the 2023 Formula 1 season reaches its halfway point, it’s evident that Max Verstappen is having another untouchable campaign with Red Bull. However, the same cannot be said for his compatriot, Nyck de Vries. De Vries has failed to secure any points so far, and in the recent British Grand Prix, he finished in 17th place, ahead of three drivers who did not finish the race.

Amid mounting speculation about his future, De Vries hopes to be given the opportunity to complete the season with AlphaTauri. He has been waiting for his chance in Formula 1 for years, but unfortunately, he has struggled to make the most of it. Ralf Schumacher suggests that Red Bull’s decision to replace De Vries has already been made by the team’s boss, Helmut Marko.

Schumacher expressed his disappointment for De Vries, particularly because it’s likely he will not be able to compete in his home race at Zandvoort. Schumacher stated in an interview with Sky Germany, “He will no longer be in the car after the summer break.” The summer break follows the Belgian Grand Prix on July 30th, and the sport takes a four-week hiatus before the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. If Schumacher’s statement holds true, there will be one less Dutchman on the grid when the race begins.

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However, the 28-year-old driver has struggled to find his rhythm at AlphaTauri. While his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, has scored two points, De Vries has failed to secure any. Red Bull’s chief adviser, Helmut Marko, has shown increasing frustration with De Vries’ poor performances.

As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether AlphaTauri will indeed replace De Vries with Daniel Ricciardo. Ricciardo, a beloved figure among fans, could bring new energy and talent to the team. However, the decision ultimately lies in the hands of the team management, who will carefully consider the potential impact of such a change.

Formula 1 fans will eagerly await further developments during the summer break and the subsequent Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. It is a crucial period for teams to reflect on their performance and make strategic decisions to enhance their chances of success in the remainder of the season.