Daniel Ricciardo, one of Formula 1’s most beloved drivers, seems to be stepping away from the grid for good. After Red Bull opted to replace him with Liam Lawson for the final six races of the season, fans and fellow drivers alike are coming to terms with the end of an era. Though no official retirement announcement has been made, Ricciardo’s absence from future races feels all but certain.
As news broke in late September, the motorsport world responded with an outpouring of love for the Aussie driver. Lewis Hamilton hailed Ricciardo as a “legend,” while Max Verstappen, his former teammate, also chimed in with a heartfelt comment. Even Lando Norris, Ricciardo’s former McLaren teammate, made a point of visiting Ricciardo’s garage post-Singapore Grand Prix to say a personal goodbye.
Will Ricciardo Say Goodbye at the US Grand Prix?
While Ricciardo hasn’t made any public comments about his future, it’s clear that he’s chosen not to attend the upcoming US Grand Prix in Austin. Given his massive fanbase in the States, he would have undoubtedly been the center of attention. However, his decision to skip the event has only fueled speculation about what lies ahead for him.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, has extended an offer for Ricciardo to take on an ambassadorial role with the team—likely a lucrative position tapping into his immense commercial appeal. However, Ricciardo has already turned down a return as a reserve driver and has yet to give any concrete answer regarding his next move.
One possible option on the table? A switch to NASCAR. Ricciardo has previously expressed an interest in the series, making it a standout contender if he chooses to stay in motorsport. He’s also set to receive the keys to the city of Austin on his next visit—proof of just how popular the Australian is stateside.
David Coulthard’s Heartfelt Tribute
On Thursday, Ricciardo dropped a series of behind-the-scenes photos from the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, fueling even more emotion. Though there was no official farewell ceremony, the 35-year-old was captured posing with his Red Bull mechanics in the pit lane—a telltale sign that his time in F1 is winding down. Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” crew was also spotted following him, likely documenting what could be his final weekend in the sport.
F1 legend David Coulthard was among those touched by the post, commenting: “Don’t mind me… just cutting onions,” perfectly capturing the sentiment of many fans watching Ricciardo’s journey come to a possible close.
Ricciardo’s close friend and former McLaren teammate, Lando Norris, also featured in the photo series, having accompanied him throughout the Singapore race weekend. Norris claimed victory that day, finishing ahead of Verstappen, in what felt like a bittersweet moment for Ricciardo’s fans.
The End of an Era
While one chapter in Ricciardo’s F1 career may be closing, speculation continues to swirl about what comes next. Some believe his charismatic personality makes him a perfect fit for television, with former driver Giedo van der Garde even suggesting a move into broadcasting.
Ricciardo’s departure also leaves Oscar Piastri as Australia’s sole representative in Formula 1. In a symbolic passing of the torch, the two drivers swapped helmets after the Singapore race, a gesture that solidified Piastri as the new Aussie face in F1.
For now, fans are left waiting to see where Ricciardo’s next adventure will take him—whether it’s behind the wheel in another racing series or perhaps in front of the camera, bringing his infectious energy to a whole new audience. Whatever he decides, one thing is clear: Daniel Ricciardo’s presence in the sport will be sorely missed.
