The VCARB team, supported by Red Bull, has had a challenging start to the current season. Helmut Marko, Yuki Tsunoda, and Daniel Ricciardo have been unable to score any points in the first two races of the 2024 F1 season. While they have managed to qualify well on the grid, they have not been able to convert their positions into successful races. This has prompted Marko to criticize the slow pace of Tsunoda and Ricciardo before the Melbourne race.
Marko is notorious for his impatience with drivers and expects them to deliver results. However, the Faenza-based team has been struggling, with Ricciardo and Tsunoda consistently at the back of the pack. As a result, they have not been able to score a single point in the two races so far.
The lack of performance has led Marko to issue a wake-up call to the VCARB duo. He emphasized that both drivers are aiming for a seat at the prestigious Austrian team in 2025. However, their current performances do not make them suitable candidates for the position. This could put pressure on them and encourage them to work together, like the successful teamwork seen in Saudi Arabia, to score points for the team.
Red Bull consultant Marko has heavily criticized Daniel Ricciardo following two mediocre weekends. In the first two races of the 2024 F1 season, Ricciardo finished in 13th and 16th positions. The 34-year-old driver acknowledged that criticism from Marko is part of the job and that his responsibility is to perform well and earn points for the team. He also noted that positive statements are made when things go his way and vice versa.
Despite the criticism, Ricciardo is hopeful for a successful weekend at the Australian Grand Prix. His goal is to score points in front of his home fans and prove his critics wrong.