Daniel Ricciardo Bids Farewell to Racing… But the Road Ahead Still Beckons
In a heartfelt open letter, Daniel Ricciardo—one of Formula 1’s most beloved drivers—has confirmed his full retirement from motor racing to embrace a new chapter as the Global Ford Racing Ambassador. Yet, behind the curtain of this transition, offers to race in IndyCar and NASCAR still linger, hinting that his competitive fire may not be entirely extinguished.
Racing No More, But Still Revved Up
Ricciardo’s final appearance on the racing grid came at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, marking the end of a bold and memorable F1 career—eight wins, 32 podiums, and three pole positions. In his letter, he wrote: “While my racing days are behind me, my love for anything with wheels will always remain high…”
He transitions into his new role with Ford Racing—formerly Ford Performance—where he’ll champion the bold, off-road Raptor brand and lifestyle. His ambassadorial duties will diverge from Ford’s involvement with Red Bull in F1, instead focusing on off-road motorsport and Raptor experiences, including potential appearances at events like the Ford Raptor Rally.
Ford CEO Jim Farley described Ricciardo’s involvement as authentic, highlighting the company’s ambition to be the “Porsche of off-road”—a vision that aligns with Ricciardo’s long-standing passion for trucks.
What About Racing Offers?
Despite stepping away from F1, ESPN reports that Ricciardo has received offers from teams in both IndyCar and NASCAR.
However, Ricciardo’s past comments temper the speculation. In prior interviews, he admitted that IndyCar ovals “still scare me”, and he’d likely avoid full-time NASCAR due to lack of oval experience—though he hasn’t ruled out occasional road-course appearances for fun.
Why This Move Matters
A graceful exit, not a retreat: Ricciardo’s retirement feels intentional—not abrupt. In his own words, racing “made me happy and created memories that will last a lifetime.” Staying true to his roots: The Raptor sponsorship lets him remain immersed in vehicle culture—albeit with trucks, not single-seaters. The door’s still ajar: Offers from other racing series suggest that, if the itch returns, Ricciardo may choose to revisit competitive racing—under his terms.
Final Thoughts
Daniel Ricciardo may have hung up his full-time racing helmet, but he hasn’t slowed down. His new partnership with Ford Racing leverages his charisma and motorsport legacy in a fresh, passionate direction. While official plans don’t include IndyCar or NASCAR, the persistent whispers of offers from those circuits reflect how highly he’s still regarded.
Whether he remains a global face of off-road life or accepts an occasional racing challenge—Daniel Ricciardo’s story continues, and it promises to be one worth watching.
