ANALYSIS: Ricciardo’s F1 career looks to be over – how did it come to this?

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner has been a big supporter of Ricciardo and fought to not only get him another shot first as Red Bull reserve, and then as a race driver at RB, but he also supported the case to keep him during this season despite some difficult results.

However, ultimately the Australian’s performances this year were deemed to not be strong enough by the Austrian side of the business. While they could see he was getting stronger, the performance curve wasn’t steepening quick enough for them – and thus the decision to change was made to give Lawson a shot.

READ MORE: Lawson to replace Ricciardo at RB for remainder of the season

Before the lights went out in Singapore, Ricciardo knew that would be his final Grand Prix.

It’s why he spent so much time sat in the cockpit, having parked his car in parc ferme, collecting his thoughts. It’s why he got so emotional when speaking in media interviews. It’s why he spent time saying goodbye to those close to him before he left the paddock for the final time as a race driver.

However, because no official announcement had been made, Ricciardo kept his counsel. Given the way he has handled himself throughout an illustrious career – with dignity and charm – you’d expect no less.