F1 News: Helmut Marko Shoots Down Daniel Ricciardo Mercedes Rumours- "Not Available"
After Lewis Hamilton broke the news of his switch to Ferrari in 2025, the rumor mill began its job of analyzing the seven-time world champion's replacement in Mercedes. One of the names to appear on the forefront was Visa Cash App RB driver Daniel Ricciardo. However, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko clarified that the Australian driver is "not available".
Hamilton's revelation of his departure from Mercedes in the upcoming year has reverberated throughout the Formula 1 community. This decision marks the conclusion of his tenure with the team with which he achieved numerous championships, signaling a new chapter with the oldest team in the F1 lineup.
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Ricciardo's tenure with Red Bull's junior team is set to conclude at the end of this year, a situation mirrored by several other Formula 1 drivers. As a result, numerous drivers are anticipated to vie for positions within the prestigious Silver Arrows team.
Initially, Ricciardo was considered a potential successor to Sergio Perez, whose contract with Red Bull expires at the end of the 2024 season. Subsequently, Ricciardo's name also emerged as a candidate to potentially fill the void left by Hamilton.
However, Marko intervened to provide clarity on his driver's status. In doing so, he inadvertently revealed information that clashed with the team's earlier announcement. The advisor mentioned that Ricciardo is under a long-term contract with his existing team, indicating his unavailability. But, it was confirmed last year that his contract would last until the end of 2024.
Speaking to F1-insider.com, here's what Marko said:
"Ricciardo still has a long-term contract and is not available''
Perhaps unintentionally, Marko may have divulged information prematurely. Nonetheless, the confirmation from the seasoned 80-year-old suggests that Ricciardo is likely to remain with Visa Cash App RB/Red Bull. With one contender eliminated, the focus now shifts to who will fill Hamilton's position.