P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Daniel Ricciardo will be replaced for first practice next week at the Japanese Grand Prix by Red Bull junior driver Ayumu Iwasa.
Following the Australian Grand Prix, it was revealed that Daniel Ricciardo will be substituted by Red Bull junior Ayumu Iwasa in the first practice session of the Japanese Grand Prix, marking an unusual move in Formula 1. Teams must give rookie drivers a practice opportunity as per regulations, but Suzuka is not traditionally where rookies make their debut due to its technical demands. This decision raises questions about Ricciardo’s struggling performance this season, with teammate Yuki Tsunoda outshining him. The timing of Iwasa’s outing in Japan could not have come at a worse time for Ricciardo, who is facing comparisons to his lackluster McLaren stint in 2022. Form and speculation about Ricciardo’s future at Red Bull are now at the center of attention, especially given the unpredictable weather conditions forecasted for the Suzuka weekend. Ricciardo’s struggles and the insistent need for track time in Japan underscore the critical juncture he finds himself in as doubts linger over his F1 career.
