After a relaxing summer break, all the Formula 1 teams, including McLaren and AlphaTauri, returned well-prepared for the remaining races. In the first practice session (P1), both the MCL 60 and AT04 showed decent performance. However, the second practice session took an unexpected turn when Daniel Ricciardo faced a crash that would eventually lead to an F2 prodigy’s much-anticipated F1 debut. Interestingly, not only did the stars align for this to happen, but Daniel Ricciardo’s actions also played a role in influencing the situation, providing an unexpected chance to avoid the FIA’s fury for both teams. So what’s the matter?

At the Zandvoort track, McLaren showcased its strong performance by securing a top standing in FP2. The results were in favor of Lando Norris, who set the pace. However, a disappointing outcome awaited their ex-driver Daniel Ricciardo, as he became involved in what would later be referred to as an infamous accident. The Honey Badger eventually broke his wrist bones and as the saying goes, “one person’s loss often becomes another’s gain,” the talented Red Bull prodigy will be able to make a miraculous debut at Max Verstappen’s home. Liam Lawson has secured a spot at AlphaTauri for this Dutch GP. However, a question arises, What led both McLaren and the Faenza team to incur the displeasure of the FIA? And if they did face consequences, how were they able to navigate their way out of the curfew?

 How did Lando Norris and Liam Lawson escape FIA’s fury?

AlphaTauri and McLaren found themselves involved in a high-stakes position as the clock went past the curfew hours on the night between Friday and Saturday. Curfew violations put them in danger of receiving penalties that could negatively impact their performance for the remainder of the season. In a way, the circumstance was predictable to AlphaTauri.

The AlphaTauri AT04 had sustained significant damage as a result of Ricciardo’s earlier accident. But what happened next was a sequence of carefully planned activities. The crew managed the difficulties of fixing the car while also preparing it for the arrival of their budding star, the rookie phenom Lawson, with a precision that rivaled his on-track moves.

McLaren too had to deal with a similar dilemma. The MCL60 #81 had been harmed as a result of Oscar Piastri’s endeavors. The McLaren squad, though, came together in the face of adversity. They repaired the car and modified it for the upcoming qualifying.  It was the first time this season that AlphaTauri avoided penalties for working above their scheduled hours.

However, Lando Norris and Co. had to deal with a more complicated situation. The violation was their second infraction of the year’s curfew, putting them in danger of further punishment. Although looking at the seriousness of the matter, the FIA had let go of any such punishment, and as per Formula Passion, ” Both teams this curfew violation will not result in penalties of any kind.”

READ MORE: Minutes After Tragedy Struck Daniel Ricciardo, F1 Marshals Send Heartwarming Note to Pray for His Speedy Recovery

Daniel Ricciardo was already out of time with only 10 races left to try to achieve his ultimate aim. Amid all of that, his route has become more challenging due to the injury worry. Thus leaving us with a question.

Will Daniel Ricciardo’s path be more challenging with Liam Lawson’s arrival?

After the British Grand Prix, Christian Horner was impressed by Daniel Ricciardo, which led the Red Bull boss to consider the flamboyant Australian as a replacement for Alpha Tauri’s Nyck de Vries which saw Liam Lawson getting baited. Since it was announced that Ricciardo would return to the world of motorsports he has only competed in two Grand Prix.

Furthermore, Daniel Ricciardo’s situation will only become more difficult if he sustains the injury for a longer time, as Liam Lawson now has a chance to show performance. As per formula1.com, the reports claimed Lawson to be a replacement for Ricciardo though with some stats,“ Lawson sits second in the Super Formula standings ahead of October’s season finale double header at Suzuka, with the break in the calendar leaving him free to substitute for Ricciardo.”

The organization strongly values the Red Bull youngster, who is rumored to be one of the candidates for a drive with the team in 2024. Given that Red Bull has always preferred performance and the Red Bull junior driver was already on the cards for Red Bull to replace de Vries, will Lawson be able to prove a threat to Ricciardo?

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