ANALYSIS: Daniel Ricciardo's F1 career appears to be over – how did this happen?

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner was a big supporter of Ricciardo and not only fought to give him another chance, first as a Red Bull reserve player and then as a racing driver at RB, but he also supported the case to get him anyway this season to retain some difficult results.

Ultimately, however, the Australian side's performances this year were deemed not strong enough by the Austrian side. Although they could see he was getting stronger, the performance curve wasn't steepening quickly enough for them – and so the decision was made to switch to give Lawson a chance.

READ MORE: Lawson replaces Ricciardo at RB for rest of season

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

That's why he spent so much time sitting in the cockpit after parking his car in parc ferme, collecting his thoughts. That's why he got so emotional in media interviews. That's why he took the time to say goodbye to those close to him before leaving the paddock for the last time as a racing driver.

However, since no official announcement had been made, Ricciardo kept his advice. Given the way he has conducted himself with dignity and charm throughout his illustrious career, one cannot expect anything less.