Red Bull-owned F1 team RB has swiftly responded to rumours suggesting that Daniel Ricciardo might not be competing in Singapore this weekend.
Multiple sources had reported earlier in the week that reserve driver Liam Lawson's contract contains a clause guaranteeing him several races this year.
However, RB promptly dismissed speculation of Ricciardo's imminent replacement in its pre-Singapore GP press release, where the 35-year-old Australian was quoted as saying: "I'm excited to get back on this track and try to score some points."
Despite this, it is still widely believed that Red Bull has now activated its 2025 option on Lawson's contract, potentially ensuring the young driver will participate in at least five races this season.
Veteran Formula 1 journalist Roger Benoit has suggested that the Singapore GP could be Ricciardo's final race for RB.
"The career of Daniel Ricciardo could end here in Singapore, after 257 races and 8 victories," Benoit wrote in Blick newspaper.
"Racing Bulls has exercised the option on New Zealander Liam Lawson (22) and will use him by 2025 at the latest," Benoit continued. "But could Ricciardo leave even earlier?"
