Ricciardo’s racing retirement and new Ford Racing role
Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo officially ended his Formula 1 career after competing in his final race at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix with Racing Bulls.
Earlier this month, Daniel Ricciardo confirmed his retirement from racing and announced a new chapter as a Ford Racing ambassador. The move sees the eight-time Grand Prix winner align with Ford’s global motorsport and off-road projects.
Red Bull and Ford partnership opens paddock door
Red Bull is preparing to enter a new era in 2026, when it launches its own power unit in collaboration with Ford. With Daniel Ricciardo now tied to Ford, speculation has risen about his presence in the F1 paddock next season.
Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies hinted that Daniel Ricciardo may be spotted at select races:
“It’s a family feeling to see Daniel getting back with Ford Racing as part of this adventure, it’s a great feeling,” Mekies told Sky Sports News.
“I’m sure everybody will love to see Daniel back in the paddock, and we are perhaps going to have that sometimes thanks to Ford Racing.”
Jim Farley: Daniel Ricciardo boosts Ford’s off-road vision
Ford CEO Jim Farley explained why Daniel Ricciardo is the perfect fit for their off-road expansion strategy.
“We want to build a global juggernaut in off-road enthusiast products,” Farley said.
“Daniel is a unique person as we all know, but he also brings a real passion for off-road to a lot of mainstream customers who may not think about off-road.
I talk to all the drivers today, all your drivers, and they all were like, ‘can I get a Raptor R?’”
Daniel Ricciardo’s enthusiasm for off-road racing is expected to help Ford connect with new audiences while strengthening its motorsport presence alongside Red Bull.
Ricciardo’s enduring link with Red Bull
Despite stepping away from active racing, Daniel Ricciardo maintains strong ties with Red Bull, the team where he won seven of his eight Formula 1 races. His Ford Racing ambassador role may naturally lead to more appearances in the F1 paddock, keeping him connected with fans and the sport.
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Conclusion: Ricciardo not done with F1 just yet
While Daniel Ricciardo has closed the door on his Formula 1 racing career, his new partnership with Ford Racing could ensure he remains a familiar face at Grands Prix. With Red Bull and Ford set to deepen their collaboration ahead of 2026, fans may soon see Daniel Ricciardo back in the paddock — this time in a different but equally influential role.
