P1racenews AI automatic summary:
RB CEO Peter Bayer has said it was Daniel Ricciardo’s choice to hold off announcing his exit from the team, whilst also sharing how “terrible” it was when he was eliminated in Q1 at the Singapore Grand Prix.
RB CEO Peter Bayer has clarified why Daniel Ricciardo’s departure from F1 was not announced before his final race with the team. The 35-year-old’s last race was at the Singapore Grand Prix, before Liam Lawson took over for the rest of the season. It is unlikely that Ricciardo will return next year, as per Bayer’s confirmation after the Marina Bay Street Circuit weekend. Although the news was officially released the following Friday, it had been widely speculated during the Singapore round. Bayer mentioned that despite the outdated appearance, RB chose to respect Ricciardo’s wishes and protect him. Ricciardo’s mental fortitude was commended by Bayer, who also expressed regret at how events unfolded in qualifying. Ricciardo himself decided to delay the announcement until after the race, showcasing his commitment to racing. Despite facing criticism, RB emphasized that they would have given Ricciardo a grand farewell had circumstances allowed.
