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horner on leaving lawson and choosing ricciardo

Horner explains why Lawson didn't get a seat at AlphaTauri

23 September at 06:57
Last update 23 September at 06:45
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  • Kada Sarkozi
  • Editor

AlphaTauri announced on Saturday that Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo have signed contract for 2024 with the team. So no Liam Lawson, despite the 21-year-old driver impressing in the AT04. Christian Horner was asked about the choice for next year and thus the passing of Lawson.

Horner is asked by Sky Sports whether Lawson could have done anything (different) to get a permanent seat at AlphaTauri next year. "No, I don't think so. All of those drivers are Red Bull racing drivers, effectively based at AlphaTauri. I think Daniel with his experience, his motivation to come back, I think he'll add great leadership to that team, and I think he's a great benchmark"

There is no doubt that the New Zealander will one day drive in Formula 1. "I think Liam, it's only a matter of time before he gets his opportunity and full-time chance. To have the three of them there is very strong for the group." Whether the decision was already fixed? "HHe's certainly turned heads, gave us plenty to think about, in particular following his Singapore drive. So he's doing everything possible to justify a case for a full-time drive, but unfortunately, three in to two, doesn't go."

No Lawson, but Ricciardo is there

That sister team AlphaTauri now chooses a 34-year-old driver over a home-grown talent more than a decade younger is striking. Horner is therefore confronted with this before the start of qualifying. Does Red Bull see more in Ricciardo than Lawson for the future? The team boss turns it all around a bit.

"Well, who knows? At Red Bull Racing, we want the best two drivers that are available. We've got a long-term contract with Max. Checo is out of contract at the end of 24, and so you want to explore and see all of those options. Checo is in the hot seat at the moment, and will obviously be keen to extend. We'll see how Daniel does, we'll see how Yuki does and in the background, we'll see what Liam's capable of in the Test and Reserve role. Horner concluded.