Christian Horner provides update on Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 comeback

Ricciardo had a crash during practice at the Zandvoort circuit last month, resulting in his exclusion from the Dutch Grand Prix. Liam Lawson stepped in as a replacement for the eight-time Grand Prix winner at AlphaTauri, who was diagnosed with a metacarpal fracture.

Ricciardo was also unable to participate in the latest race in Italy as he continues his recovery following surgery. Lawson will continue to substitute for Ricciardo until the Australian driver is fit to return to the cockpit.

However, Horner acknowledged that Ricciardo's absence is expected to extend to the next two races in Singapore and Japan. 

"Singapore, there's no chance we'll be ready for that," said Horner to reporters. "Optimistically, we're looking at Japan, but we want to ensure he's fully fit before he gets back in the car, considering that rushing a comeback can sometimes cause further damage, as we've seen with motorcyclists."

If Horner's timeline proves accurate, Ricciardo may not be back in the cockpit until the Qatar Grand Prix next month. 

The upcoming Formula 1 race is the Singapore Grand Prix, scheduled for the weekend of 15-17 September, marking the 16th race of the season. The Marina Bay Circuit in Singapore is a physically demanding track, challenging drivers with its 5.063km bumpy street surface and humid conditions.

 

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