Daniel Ricciardo set to end F1 career as Aussie rejects new Red Bull role

Daniel Ricciardo has made it clear he's not keen on a reserve role at Red Bull, signalling an end to his 13-year stint in Formula One following a disappointing finish at the Singapore Grand Prix.

The Aussie driver, who struggled throughout the season with Visa Cash App RB (VCARB), was overcome with emotion during post-race interviews, suggesting his F1 career is drawing to a close. He received a poignant guard of honour as he returned to the team's hospitality area after placing 18th in the race at Marina Bay Street Circuit.

With only 12 points to his name this season, trailing behind teammate Yuki Tsunoda by 10, expectations are that current Red Bull reserve Liam Lawson will take over from Ricciardo starting with the United States Grand Prix. Despite being demoted to third driver for Red Bull in 2023, after parting ways with McLaren and stepping in for Nyck de Vries at VCARB (formerly AlphaTauri) mid-last season, Ricciardo has dismissed the idea of settling for test and simulator work like Lawson.

The 35-year-old veteran, facing an imminent exit from the paddock, expressed his disinterest in a reserve position, stating: "No [I'm not interested in being a Red Bull reserve]. Obviously, last year it made a lot of sense to keep one foot in the door and obviously the big picture was to try and get back at Red Bull."

The Australian driver, 35, said: "I think if I was to do that again, there's not really [much point]. I'm not going to restart my career. I'm also 35 and I still showed the pace that I've had over the years."

Ricciardo acknowledged that he has found it tougher to consistently deliver strong performances, suggesting that age may be a factor. "But it's obviously been evident that it's been harder for me to show