Speculations Rise as Ricciardo Sets Fastest Lap in Possible Farewell Race at Singapore Grand Prix

Red Bull's principal, Laurent Mekies, hints that the Singapore Grand Prix might be Daniel Ricciardo's final Formula One race. Ricciardo was given the chance to set the fastest lap, a move that affected the points of McLaren's Lando Norris and Red Bull's Max Verstappen. The scenario stirred reactions within the F1 community.

In what might have been his final Formula One race, Daniel Ricciardo was given the opportunity to set the fastest lap at Sunday's Singapore Grand Prix, according to Red Bull principal Laurent Mekies. 'Given this may have been Daniel's last race, we wanted him to savor it and go out with the fastest lap,' Mekies stated.

This strategic move, while memorable for Ricciardo, sparked controversy as it resulted in McLaren's title contender, Lando Norris, losing a crucial point to Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who now leads by 52 points. Verstappen expressed his gratitude to Ricciardo after the race.

However, the lap did not benefit Ricciardo, who finished 18th, out of the points-scoring positions. The McLaren team, led by Andrea Stella, voiced surprise but stopped short of accusing their rivals of collusion. As the racing community awaits confirmation, Ricciardo is expected to make way for New Zealander Liam Lawson next season.

(With inputs from agencies.)