After much speculation during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, Daniel Ricciardo was officially dropped by Visa Cash App RB late last month, ending his 2024 season and possibly bringing his career to a close. The Australian will be replaced by Liam Lawson for the final six races of the season.
Ricciardo’s departure has left a noticeable void for his loyal fans, who have followed his journey since his early days at Toro Rosso through his successes with Red Bull, and more recently, his return to AlphaTauri (Visa Cash App RB). While many hope to see him back in a competitive Formula 1 seat, others believe that a fresh start outside of F1 might be the change he needs.
Reportedly, Red Bull has extended an offer to Ricciardo, expressing interest in retaining him in an ambassadorial role within the organization. However, as Red Bull chief Helmut Marko notes, it remains unclear whether Ricciardo will accept this offer or opt to continue his racing career, or even call it a day in his career.
“We have had a conversation and it is clear that we are interested,” explained Marko. He is one of the most popular Formula 1 drivers, especially in the United States.”
“But he wants time to consider his entire future. I don’t think he will enter any other racing category. And, on the other hand, if he is no longer actively racing, will he still want these PR activities at all? Ricciardo also has a lot of money in the bank and I would say it is a life decision for him to decide how he wants to shape his future life.” he added.
Is Ricciardo heading to NASCAR?
Daniel Ricciardo is rumored to be considering a surprising move to NASCAR following his departure from Formula 1. Respected Formula 1 commentator Alex Jacques has suggested that a future in NASCAR could be on the cards for Ricciardo, noting the Australian’s strong popularity in the United States, bolstered by his prominent role in Netflix’s hit series Drive to Survive.
“I know he’s got offers aplenty already,” Jacques told during the Formula For Success podcast. “I think the media work is going to be nailed on for him. I think he’ll be back in a Formula 1 paddock at some point.”
“I suspect he’s not going to be able to resist a little bit of NASCAR. He’s a massive NASCAR fan. He really does appreciate it and loves that.”
Last month, Ricciardo himself admitted that he would love to try his luck in NASCAR if the opportunity presents itself.
“I grew up a fan of NASCAR,” he said in an interview with Tourism Western Australia. “I’d like to drive a NASCAR, I’d love to drive around Daytona for example. But would I like to compete? Well maybe.”
Given the growth of Formula 1 in the United States, a transition to NASCAR could be a perfect opportunity for Ricciardo to continue engaging with his American fan base. NASCAR, with its roots in U.S. motorsport, offers a different style of racing, but one that could align well with Ricciardo’s bold driving approach and affinity for high-speed challenges.
Should Ricciardo decide against continuing with full-time racing, he could explore a career in sports broadcasting and punditry, a path many former F1 drivers have taken. Figures like Anthony Davidson, Karun Chandhok, and Nico Rosberg have all become regulars on the Sky Sports F1 team.
Read More: Daniel Ricciardo’s Words to Liam Lawson After RB Seat Swap Revealed
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
