Daniel Ricciardo, the charismatic Australian racing driver and one of the most popular figures in modern Formula 1, is once again connected to the pinnacle of motorsport in a renewed and fascinating way — but not in quite the way many fans expected. Although Ricciardo isn’t set to take a seat on the 2026 Formula 1 grid as a full-time competitor, his involvement with the sport’s next chapter is now shaping up to be more meaningful and dynamic than ever before.
For years, Daniel Ricciardo thrilled fans with his distinctive driving style, infectious personality, and remarkable ability to extract performance from his cars. From his early days in karting to his success with Red Bull Racing — where he claimed the majority of his eight Grand Prix victories — Ricciardo became a fan favorite around the globe. However, after a difficult period with McLaren and a mid-season departure from RB (formerly AlphaTauri) in 2024, it appeared that his days competing in Formula 1 had drawn to a close.
In the years that followed, Ricciardo’s professional path took a new direction. He officially stepped away from competitive racing and transitioned instead into a fresh role as Global Ambassador for Ford Racing. This position allows him to remain deeply connected to motorsport without the relentless pressure of competition that he endured during his time as a full-time driver. While some drivers cut ties completely after retiring, Ricciardo stayed involved in a way that lets him enjoy the parts of the sport he loves most — especially the culture and excitement around high-performance machines.
In this ambassador role, Ricciardo has appeared at races, promotional events, and unique racing festivals, sharing his insight and enthusiasm with fans and new audiences alike. His work highlights the passion that brands like Ford bring back to motorsports, bridging classic automotive heritage with modern competitive aspirations. Yet even as he champions the legacy and future of Ford Racing, Ricciardo’s comments in recent interviews have sparked speculation about something more: could he still have a place in Formula 1 beyond his ambassadorial duties?
Ricciardo’s statements about Ford’s return to Formula 1 under the new 2026 engine and regulation changes have been carefully worded, but they hint at an active connection to the sport that many fans had thought was behind him. He emphasized his passion for motorsport and the historical significance of Ford’s involvement, cleverly blending admiration for the project with personal excitement about what’s coming next. His words have been interpreted by many as evidence that he might not entirely rule out future participation in Formula 1, albeit in a non-traditional role — perhaps as a brand ambassador, adviser, or occasional paddock presence.
Even though Ricciardo made it clear that his main focus is on his Ford Racing commitments and enjoying life at a different pace after leaving full-time competition, there’s a growing belief among fans that his connection with Formula 1 hasn’t completely faded. The natural chemistry between Ricciardo’s charismatic persona and the high-octane world of F1 culture creates a narrative that feels unfinished. After all, his smiling face, energetic interviews, and longstanding relationships with teams like Red Bull make it easy to imagine him in various corners of the paddock, offering insight and engaging with fans and industry insiders alike.
Part of what keeps the speculation alive is the fact that Ricciardo hasn’t entirely shied away from the spotlight. His appearances at motorsport events and his involvement in high-profile automotive projects ensure that he remains a recognizable figure. These public moments help maintain his relevance in the sport’s ecosystem and reinforce the idea that he still has something to contribute to Formula 1’s broader story — even if that contribution isn’t behind the wheel.
Fans have long appreciated Ricciardo not just for his race results but also for his personality and willingness to embrace challenges. Whether he was pulling off daring overtakes, engaging with young supporters, or offering candid interviews, Ricciardo’s presence brought a human element to the high-stakes, high-technology world of Formula 1. That personal connection has endured beyond his racing career, leaving many supporters hopeful that they’ll continue to see him involved, perhaps in new and unexpected capacities.
Ultimately, Ricciardo’s story shows that the end of a driving career doesn’t necessarily mean the end of a relationship with the sport. His shift into ambassadorial roles, brand partnerships, and promotional appearances demonstrates a new chapter that blends professional engagement with personal fulfillment. While the roar of the F1 engine may no longer be under his control, Ricciardo’s impact on the sport he loves is far from over — and his evolving role may still hold surprises for fans and industry watchers alike as Formula 1 enters a bold new era in 2026.
