AUSTIN — Formula 1 is in Austin for this weekend's U.S. Grand Prix, but Friday's FIA press conference featured three team principals, a former driver and their departure from the grid.
Laurent Mekies was asked about the Visa Cash App RB F1 Team's decision to part ways with Daniel Ricciardo after the Singapore Grand Prix and replace him with Liam Lawson for the rest of the season. Specifically, Mekies was asked about how the situation was handled when Ricciardo ran his last F1 race in Singapore, when everyone around the paddock looked like the end was near. Ta.
Mekies admitted the situation was not “ideal”, but said the outpouring of support for Ricciardo from across the sport was proof of how much the driver meant to F1. said.
“Yes, it was frustrating and yes, you're right. It wasn't ideal for him to spend the weekend like this,” Mekies began, “first of all, for him professionally.” , and as a personal matter, and also for the whole team around him. Yes, Daniel was aware. We had discussions before the weekend, without announcing it. Together we chose to participate in it. And from that point on, we have to deal with it.”
The VCARB boss then turned to how the sport and the team are still finding ways to express their love for Ricciardo.
“In hindsight, it's a decision that we may or may not have done differently, but it's something that both us, the team and the drivers, were on board and participating in to get through it.” Mekies continued. “I think now, in some way, we have found a way to express how much love there is from this sport to Daniel. From the fans to Daniel.
“So I don't know if it was good or bad,” Mekies continued. “Certainly different and more traditional than this. The amount of love and empathy that we felt throughout that weekend was something else and a great feeling that he is greater than an F1 driver and greater than F1.” I hope I can say that it shows that.”
Ricciardo's millions of fans will no doubt agree, especially on that last point.
