Alex Albon’s theory: Franco Colapinto and Ollie Bearman the reason for Daniel Ricciardo’s departure. Alex Albon feels young drivers may have influenced the Red Bull decision to drop Daniel Ricciardo.

Next year, there will be several new faces on the F1 grid. According to Alex Albon, the performances of young drivers like Oliver Bearman and Franco Colapinto might have played a key role in Red Bull’s decision to replace Daniel Ricciardo with Liam Lawson.

Upon returning from the break, the New Zealand driver will be at the wheel of the second VCARB. However, it’s not his debut. The 2002-born driver had already replaced Daniel Ricciardo last year after the Zandvoort injury.

Liam Lawson will also be on the grid next year, one of several new additions. Along with him, Kimi Antonelli, Oliver Bearman, and Jack Doohan will also make their full-time debuts. All are talents who have already had the opportunity to showcase their abilities in an F1 car.

Alex Albon’s hypothesis
When asked about Daniel Ricciardo’s departure, Alex Albon pointed out that young drivers like Oliver Bearman and Franco Colapinto, with whom he is now sharing the garage, might have influenced Red Bull’s decision.

“It’s obviously tough,” explained the Thai driver to motorsport.com. “I really like Daniel. He’s a great person and also a fantastic ambassador for this sport. Of course, I can’t speak about the decision itself. I imagine that, in a certain sense, the fact that Ollie and Franco have done so well has prompted Red Bull to rethink its approach to young drivers. Liam has already done a good job.”

“I feel bad for Daniel. I think he’s a great driver, above all else, so I’m sure he’ll find his path and do something. I don’t know what that could be. I could see him doing something like NASCAR.” – he admitted – “I see him as someone who enjoys life and his ties to the United States,” concluded the Williams driver. “So I could definitely see him doing something like that.” – the Williams driver concluded.