Liam Lawson says that Daniel Ricciardo never made him feel like a genuine rival during their time together at Visa Cash App RB, insisting his story is one of deep appreciation for the very man he has replaced.
For many drivers, taking the seat of someone as beloved as Ricciardo could have felt like walking into a storm, but Lawson's perspective paints a picture of a healthy, supportive relationship between the two.
In fact, he’s quick to credit the F1 veteran for easing his transition into the high-pressure world of Formula 1 and navigating the sport’s challenges.
As the Kiwi prepares for his return to the grid next week in Austin for the final six races of the season, he acknowledged the mixed reactions Ricciardo’s replacement has elicited given the latter’s recognition.
“I know the sort of public figure that Daniel is, and honestly, it’s because he’s just a great guy. And he was about the whole situation as well,” Lawson told RACER.
Lawson’s words reveal not only his awareness of Ricciardo’s immense popularity but also the depth of respect he holds for the Australian driver.
There was never a sense of bitterness or rivalry between the two, despite the fact that they were technically competing for the same position at RB.
Ricciardo, known for his laid-back demeanor and infectious smile, could easily have approached the situation differently. However, Lawson explained how the Aussie handled the dynamic with grace and camaraderie.
“With Daniel, throughout the whole year, or year and a half, that it’s been like this, he’s never made it feel like competition,” Lawson revealed.
“It never felt like we’ve been in competition for the same thing, although I guess we have been. It never felt like that. So there’s a lot of things he could have not done, and said no to, that he hasn’t.”
Ricciardo’s willingness to lend a helping hand, even knowing that Lawson was essentially vying for the same seat, is a testament to his character.
Lawson didn’t shy away from expressing just how much Ricciardo’s support had meant to him as he navigated the challenging waters of Formula 1.
“He’s helped me, honestly, quite a lot over the last 12 months,” the 22-year-old said. “And he was very good about the whole situation in Singapore, and I guess we both knew how it was going to be when it all came, and in the media.
“And that’s honestly why I just hadn’t really been on my phone too much,” he added, acknowledging the intense scrutiny surrounding his comeback.
“It’s not something that fazes me too much. I’ve got quite a lot to focus on, obviously going into the last six races, and that’s honestly where my head’s been at. I don’t really have the capacity to do everything else.”
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Lawson’s candid comments highlighted his focus on the future—on proving himself over the remaining races, rather than getting caught up in the whirlwind of social media or public opinion.
“So I think it’ll become a lot more real going into next week, going into Austin, because so far … if I spent the day on my phone and I actively looked at everything that’s been posted, then it would probably feel a bit different.
“But I’ve been trying to avoid doing that,” he concluded.
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