In the dynamic and unpredictable realm of the driver 'silly season,' Daniel Ricciardo has re-emerged as a candidate for one of Formula 1's most sought-after positions.
At Silverstone, Christian Horner responded to the "brutally hard question" about Red Bull's recent decision to renew the contract of the underperforming Sergio Perez.
"It made absolute sense to sign Checo at that point in time," he acknowledged, "but this is a business in which there are pressures to deliver."
Horner also noted that as competitors like McLaren start to edge closer, possibly even surpassing Red Bull in terms of speed for 2024, there's an urgent need for a driver who can consistently compete at Max Verstappen's level.
"We thought the contract would help," he disclosed to Sky.
"He's been in the sim this week to understand why it just isn't working. But the point is that when we sign a driver, you (reporters) do not know the content of the contract. This is a sport in which you cannot hide. He needs to support Max."
While it's likely that Perez's contract includes performance-related clauses, Ricciardo's agreement probably also includes functions allowing him to transition from the junior team RB to Red Bull Racing.
"They are all Red Bull Racing drivers," Horner clarified.
Another challenge for Red Bull is the looming expiration of the promising reserve Liam Lawson's contract, which would necessitate a race seat in 2025. Elevating Ricciardo could help resolve several issues at once for the energy drink giant.
Addressing inquiries about Perez at Silverstone, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko commented, "He has his fluctuations. This time he looks better again."
Auto Motor und Sport reported Marko's guarded response regarding Ricciardo's recently improved performance and its implications for his career. "We'll know more by the summer break," was his sole remark.
