Ricciardo: next two race weekends are critical for his F1 career
BUDAPEST, Hungary - Daniel Ricciardo has expressed that he is approaching the next two race weekends as the most critical of his Formula One career, independent of the current situation with Sergio Perez at Red Bull.
Ricciardo has battled for consistent performance since rejoining Red Bull's junior team, RB, exactly a year ago. Initially perceived as the natural successor to Perez should Red Bull opt for a switch, reserve driver Liam Lawson has now seemingly become the preferred choice in that scenario.
According to reports, Red Bull boss Christian Horner informed Ricciardo last month that he had until the summer break to prove his worth to the junior team, making the extension of his career the primary focus for the eight-time grand prix winner.
"I haven't been told anything, but I've told myself if I can do it, go fast," Ricciardo remarked regarding the potential summer shake-up at Red Bull's teams.
"You've got two races to give it hell. And that's honestly not even with the idea of moving up, it's even just trying to lock something in for next year.
"I intentionally came into the weekend telling myself that these two races could be two of the most important of not only my season but potentially my career. They haven't specifically said anything to me but I've said enough to myself."
Ricciardo showcased a crucial return to form on Saturday, progressing through to Q3 and finishing in ninth position. This performance came after Perez crashed out in Q1, seemingly increasing the chances of him losing his F1 drive by August.
Yuki Tsunoda, another driver whom Horner does not consider a suitable candidate to partner Verstappen in the top team, also crashed out at the end of Q3 in the other RB car.
Ricciardo acknowledged that such mistakes are part and parcel of racing for either of Red Bull's teams.
"Look, we're pushing, it's Q3, I'm not making an excuse for Yuki but that corner you just have no margin. So you drop a wheel there and it's game over. So that was that. And then Checo's, I know that was probably when it was still a little bit damper, and these conditions you've got to send it and put it all on the line and small mistakes obviously have big consequences.
"So there's a lot of pressure on not only us and Red Bull right now, but everyone in that situation. So everyone has moments but when you cross the line sometimes you're just like 'Thank you'."
As Ricciardo gears up for these pivotal races, his focus remains unwavering on proving his worth and securing his future within Formula One.
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