Sergio Perez will reach his deadline in Belgium this weekend. This means Red Bull either keeps him if he performs or replaces him. Would he want that? No. But would the reserve drivers or VCARB drivers see this as a potential? Absolutely. As time ticks away, speculations hype Daniel Ricciardo’s Red Bull homecoming. However, Ricciardo’s return is also speculative. The Aussie needs to prove himself, or else, how is he supposed to get the seat alongside Max Verstappen? Meanwhile, the inquiring minds aren’t at rest.

The world’s best drivers have gathered at Spa-Francorchamps, heating both the atmosphere and the transfer market. Pre-race rituals have begun, including PR events, fan zone meet-and-greets, and the FIA press conference. The most anticipated event is the press conference, where drivers’ words can quash or ignite speculations, making it crucial for the sport. The drivers gathered before the media to answer some real fiery questions. Among them was the ‘Honey Badger’ who is getting all the spotlight now. But did Daniel Ricciardo reveal insights on his rumored Red Bull transfer? Let’s find out.

Daniel Ricciardo is focusing on himself more than on Sergio Perez’s Red Bull seat

At the press conference, Ricciardo was asked if he was expecting a driver change at Red Bull. His cheeky reply was, “So predictable.“ Looks like, Daniel was waiting for the obvious questions to pop up. His future interests everyone, so the question was predictable. However, there was no information on his future at Red Bull. And currently, the 35-year-old is focusing on himself. Daniel Ricciardo said: “Honestly, I don’t know. But like always, just focus on myself and what I can do. Every race or few races, the narrative changes and that’s the sport we’re in.” So true! Every race tells a new story and with that, the perceptions about each driver continue to change.

He further added, “Things are happening quickly and you’ve just got to try and, I think in these situations, focus on yourself and get the most out of that and then see where the wind takes me. No changes from the approach.” The ever-smiling guy of F1 is giving his racing more attention than ever. Of course, he wants to go into the summer break with a good result and optimism.

Daniel Ricciardo‘s performance in Hungary was underwhelming. Also, thanks to the disastrous team strategies, he ended up in P12. He wouldn’t want the same to happen in Spa. So, keeping aside all the rumors and speculations, Daniel Ricciardo has set his target. He must pick up some points and prove his mettle and experience in F1. However, one cannot stop thinking about Ricciardo’s possible return to Red Bull. But given Sergio Perez’s ‘redemption’ at Hungaroring, will it be easy?

Will Sergio Perez be replaced even after picking points in Budapest?

The logic here is simple – Consistency. And neither Sergio Perez nor Daniel Ricciardo have excelled in this. The truth might be harsh, but it is what it is. The only thing these two experienced drivers have been consistent with is inconsistency. But maybe if Perez performs well at the Belgian GP he could be considered. But, is there a guarantee that his performance won’t drop after the summer break? No. But is Daniel Ricciardo the best replacement for Checo? That is a debatable topic.

Young drivers like Liam Lawson, and Isack Hadjar stand in a queue to grab a seat beside Verstappen. However, one driver could be the ‘black horse’. Any guesses who? It’s Yuki Tsunoda, who has been consistent with his performance since last year. This year, he has out-qualified his teammate Daniel Ricciardo in almost all the races, and his Red Bull prospects have recently looked brighter than the others. However, these are all speculations and unless any official announcements are made, it is hard to say who will be where and why.

But one thing is for sure – the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix will be entertaining. As the drivers will go heads-on against each other, a special focus would be on Red Bull and their satellite team VCARB. It will be interesting to see who performs better Perez or Ricciardo. Will Spa-Francorchamps be the deciding race for the two of them? What do you think? Share in the comments as we wait for the event!