Daniel Ricciardo is understood to be the preferred option at Red Bull to replace Sergio Perez, with the team ready to evaluate both drivers.
When Daniel Ricciardo returned to AlphaTauri at the Hungarian GP, it was clear what the objective was. The Australian was asked extensively about the prospect of returning to F1 during his on the sidelines.
Almost without fail, Ricciardo made clear he would only return to F1 for an opportunity to fight at the front.
For a driver with several race victories, these are reasonable terms to have. Still, there were initial concerns that a top team would never pursue Ricciardo if he didn’t go to a midfield team and re-discover his best form. Following a sequence of unexpected events, the 34-year-old has an opportunity to find his feet in the midfield – whilst also contending for a seat with a big team.
Red Bull has always thought highly of the Australian, which is why they fought to prevent his exit in 2018. Since his departure, the Austrian outfit has failed to find a driver capable of matching or even challenging Max Verstappen. Some of this can be attributed to the Dutchman’s progression, but it is also clear that Ricciardo was amongst the best in F1 during his time at Red Bull.
Five rounds to evaluate Perez and Ricciardo
With five rounds left in 2023, reports suggest that Ricciardo will replace Sergio Perez if he performs well with AlphaTauri. It is understood that Red Bull is unhappy with Perez’s current form, and there are concerns a more competitive field next season will demand more of Verstappen’s next teammate.
The Mexican driver began the year with a series of race wins – but his decline since then is well documented. Over 200 points behind his teammate and at risk of losing 2nd in the Championship, his position on Christian Horner’s team is at risk.
Both Christian Horner and Helmut Marko have spoken directly about Perez’s situation at the team. Clear concerns – and the need for immediate results – have been expressed. However, another element that is consistent in interviews with Red Bull’s senior personnel is this: they are unsure if a capable replacement is available.
Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, at least for now, are not seen as experienced enough for a promotion. Daniel Ricciardo’s Zandvoort injury has prevented the team from assessing his level either. However, this changes from this weekend onwards. Make no mistake, there are no guarantees at the Red Bull camp for 2024.
Stakes are raised
Perez has a contract for next season, but this doesn’t rule out Ricciardo as a viable replacement. The urgency at Milton Keynes has increased substantially in recent weeks. McLaren’s resurgence has contributed to this, with Red Bull concerned about the strength of the Norris-Piastri duo.
In the upcoming F1 Sprint weekend (with limited practice), both Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez will be tested. They will be forced to adapt, which – for different reasons – represents a huge challenge. After the American GP, the scrutiny from Red Bull and the wider F1 world will continue. Each driver must prove they are capable of fighting at the front and contributing alongside Max Verstappen next season.
Adrian Newey described 2023 as one of the easiest seasons of his career. However, the team cannot count on this repeating itself next season. Until the end of the season, performances at Red Bull and AlphaTauri will have significant consequences.
