The competition between Ricciardo and Tsunoda within the Red Bull racing team is attracting attention as it could potentially determine who will secure Sergio Pérez’s spot at the team, if Pérez does not continue. Ricciardo is under pressure from the team, particularly from Helmut Marko, a prominent figure in the organization, who has publicly expressed the need for better performance from the Australian driver. This comes after Ricciardo’s return to full-time racing following his time with McLaren, where he has struggled and been outperformed by his teammate Tsunoda in qualifying and races so far this season.
The competition between Ricciardo and Tsunoda within the team is gaining attention as it could potentially decide who will claim Pérez’s seat at Red Bull Racing, should Pérez not continue with the team. The situation within Red Bull also suggests that Max Verstappen may leave the team early due to internal politics, adding another layer of intrigue.
Marko, known for his straightforward comments, has emphasized the high stakes for both Ricciardo and Tsunoda, highlighting Tsunoda’s success in qualifying and indicating that Ricciardo needs to improve his performance. This direct feedback is part of the culture within the Red Bull family, something that Ricciardo appreciates. He acknowledges the pressure from Marko but remains motivated and focused on improving, despite a challenging start to the season with a significant gap in qualifying and a disappointing race in Saudi Arabia due to a slow pit stop and a mistake on the track.
Ricciardo and his team have identified issues with his car, providing context to the difficulties he has faced and maintaining confidence in its potential. He remains optimistic about his ability to compete effectively, especially in a closely contested field where every race presents opportunities for points, particularly at his home race. Ricciardo’s resilience and positive outlook demonstrate his determination to regain a position among the frontrunners in Formula 1, understanding the importance of seizing every opportunity to showcase his abilities and earn his place in the sport.