Daniel Ricciardo hands Max Verstappen the ultimate gift in what could be the Formula 1 cult hero’s final act in the sport as the Australian is dropped after the Singapore Grand Prix

Daniel Ricciardo made sure his exit from Formula 1 did not go quietly as the Australian veteran made the ultimate team move that could prove decisive in Max Verstappen’s defence of his world championship.

The dismissal hangs over the head of RB driver Ricciardo. According to reports, the popular Australian will be replaced by debuting driver Liam Lawson at next month’s United States Grand Prix.

Ricciardo looked set to quietly retire from the sport in 18th place, after Alex Albon and Kevin Magnussen had already retired. But he surprised fans and pundits when he pulled into the pits with just a few laps to go.

He returned to the circuit on a new set of soft tyres and set the fastest lap of the race, previously held by race winner Lando Norris.

McLaren star Norris is chasing Verstappen for the world championship, but Ricciardo’s fast lap saw the young Briton miss out on a bonus point for the race.

Red Bull star Verstappen was informed of Ricciardo’s eventual team move after the chequered flag and the grateful Dutchman simply said: ‘Thanks Daniel’.

Ricciardo appeared visibly upset when he spoke to the Formula 1 announcer after the race. He finished 18th with the fastest lap of the Grand Prix.

“A lot of emotions,” he began. “I know it could be that. I think it’s just [that] I’m exhausted after the race, so I don’t know. I just have all these emotions and feelings coming through me, maybe it’s exhaustion.’

Daniel Ricciardo helped his Formula 1 buddy Max Verstappen in what could be his final act

Ricciardo set the fastest lap of the race, taking a bonus point from Lando Norris

Ricciardo’s voice trembled as the interview drew to a close and he reflected on his time behind the wheel in Formula 1.

“The cockpit is something that… um…,” he said, taking a moment to collect himself. “I had gotten very used to it over the years and just wanted to enjoy the moment.”

Verstappen eventually finished second, behind successful race winner Norris, while Ricciardo’s compatriot Oscar Piastri took third place after his victory in Baku last time out.