Daniel Ricciardo appeared visibly emotional after qualifying eight positions behind his teammate in Singapore, intensifying the growing questions about his immediate future.
On Sunday, it seems highly likely that the Australian, who has struggled in recent seasons, will make his 257th and last Formula 1 race appearance.
"This performance probably makes the decision easier for Red Bull," said Alex Wurz, former F1 driver and president of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, speaking to ORF.
Key figures within Red Bull and their second F1 team, RB, have increasingly signalled that Liam Lawson may now step into Ricciardo's seat, probably as early as the next race in Austin.
"We will announce the decision after Singapore," revealed Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko on Saturday.
"There is never a guarantee in Formula 1."
Rumours suggest that Red Bull needed to activate a 2025 option on Lawson by the end of September, which may also mean he is contractually obliged to race in at least five Grands Prix during the 2024 season.
"It is about big strategic decisions for both teams," commented RB CEO Peter Bayer to Sky Deutschland.
He also explained that, after discussions over the summer, "Singapore is certainly another milestone."
Bayer went on to say, "After Singapore, there will be final talks to discuss our lineup for 2025 and other options. As RB, we also have the task of developing young drivers. Ultimately, the decision will be made by Dr Marko and Christian Horner, based on who has the most potential to join Red Bull Racing in the future."
He continued, "Whether this driver joins the team this year or next will be decided in the next few days. It's about the overall picture."
Ricciardo, 35, seemed resigned to his fate after finishing P16 in qualifying, with his trademark grin fading as he fought back tears.
"Yes, of course it would have been nice to make a statement," Ricciardo admitted. "The Q1 thing is annoying.
"With all the sh*t here, I thought today would go well."
He added, "I try to stay optimistic, but today was a very pessimistic day. So I'm just going to drown in my ice bath."
Red Bull's driver lineup is in a state of flux, with rumours suggesting Max Verstappen could be exploring future opportunities with Mercedes or Aston Martin, while Sergio Perez is speculated to be considering retirement at the end of the season.
Christian Horner, Red Bull's team boss, acknowledged the team's focus on the future, suggesting Lawson's development could be a priority for 2024.
"We want to take our time to consider what the options for the future look like," he told Sky Deutschland.
"We're not afraid to look outside our pool of drivers."
Horner also hinted at another potential target, saying, "George Russell is out of contract after next season. It would be foolish not to consider him."
