Helmut Marko Confirms Daniel Ricciardo’s Paddock Return, Rules Out F1 Comeback
Red Bull chief Helmut Marko has revealed that Daniel Ricciardo made a brief return to the paddock at the Australian Grand Prix, but emphatically ruled out the possibility of the Australian driver making a comeback to Formula 1.
Marko’s comments come amidst speculation about Ricciardo’s future in the sport, fueled by the recent announcement that Cadillac will be joining the F1 grid in 2026. However, when asked if Red Bull considered bringing Ricciardo back following Liam Lawson’s axing, Marko was unequivocal.
“No, that was never considered. Daniel has driven his last race and has stayed away from Formula 1 since then. He was there briefly in Australia, but I think he was gone again on Thursday. This was never a topic,” Marko said.
Marko’s statement suggests that Ricciardo’s F1 career is indeed over, a notion that the 35-year-old himself hinted at during a fan event in New York last year. When asked about a potential return to F1 with Cadillac, Ricciardo replied with a simple “I’m done.”
Ricciardo’s departure from F1 marks the end of an era for the Australian driver, who won eight Grands Prix and achieved numerous podiums throughout his career. While fans may hold out hope for a miraculous comeback, Marko’s comments and Ricciardo’s own words suggest that his F1 career is indeed behind him.
