F1 drivers pay tribute to Ricciardo after Red Bull's choice to replace the Australian driver

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Lewis Hamilton expressed his heartfelt sentiments towards Daniel Ricciardo following the decision made by Red Bull to replace the Australian driver. This move seems to mark the conclusion of Ricciardo's illustrious Formula 1 career, as he was let go by RB with only six rounds remaining in the 2024 season. The news of Ricciardo's departure stirred emotions within the racing community, prompting Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, to share a poignant tribute to his longtime competitor on social media.

As Red Bull's junior squad announced the decision to replace Ricciardo with Liam Lawson for the remaining races of the season, the motorsport community collectively acknowledged the end of an era in Ricciardo's racing journey. With eight victories in 257 grand prix starts over 14 seasons, Ricciardo leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered and cherished by fans and fellow drivers alike.

Hamilton, who is a seven-time world champion, posted on Instagram: "It's been a honour to compete with you over the years.

"I'll never forget the battles, the laughs, and drinking out of your shoe. It was gross, but glad I got to do it with you bud.

"You leave a legacy of always being yourself, which in this sport is never easy. You've taken it all with the biggest smile and I salute you for it.

"There is so much more for you up ahead and I can't wait to see what you do next. Always here for you, man."

George Russell, Hamilton's teammate, also messaged Ricciardo on social media, joking about how the Australian likes to swap the names of the Mercedes drivers.

"F1 won't be the same without you, mate," Russell. "All the best on the next adventure, Ricciardo Daniel."

Christian Horner, the Red Bull team principal and chief executive, also paid tribute to Ricciardo on social media. Horner was the one who ultimately decided to release the Australian.

Ricciardo spent three seasons with Red Bull's junior team, Toro Rosso, before joining Red Bull under Horner's guidance for five seasons.

Horner wrote. "From the moment you arrived at Red Bull it was obvious you were so much more than just a driver,"

"Your constant enthusiasm, sense of humour and attitude will leave an indelible legacy on the team here in Milton Keynes and F1 as a whole.

"Thank you for the wins, smiles, songs (and I wish I could say the shoeys), you will always be a special part of the Red Bull family.

"8 wins, 32 podiums, 1,329 points. These statistics and accolades are not the only measure of who you are and what you have achieved. Thank you, Daniel."