Ricciardo leaves the door open for future racing return

Daniel Ricciardo has reaffirmed that he has no immediate plans to return to racing, but the popular Australian isn't ruling out a future comeback. Speaking on the Speed Street podcast, the eight-time Grand Prix winner made it clear that while he's content away from the cockpit, he refuses to close the door entirely.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's departure from Racing Bulls after Singapore 2024 marked the end of an era for one of F1's most charismatic characters. His future decisions – even if remote – carry weight for fans and the driver market. A return, even in a part-time or fun-focused capacity, would be a major story.

The details:

• Ricciardo was replaced by Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, a move he now says he's grateful for.
• He currently stays connected to motorsport as a Ford ambassador and through his Enchanté brand's partnership with Racing Bulls' F1 Academy programme.
• On the podcast, he stated: "I want to be mature enough and I don't want to be too black and white, because never say never."
• He is genuinely enjoying life away from the intense F1 calendar: "I'm really enjoying not competing ... just enjoying the small things in life and not having to be on a stage."
• If he were to race again, it would be "more from a fun aspect than a, like, 'I'm chasing some championship' aspect."

What's next:

For now, Ricciardo is fully retired from competitive racing, at least in an F1 context. But his 'never say never' stance leaves the possibility – however slim – of a cameo in other series, perhaps in GT or endurance racing, where the pressure is lower and the fun factor higher. Don't expect a full-time F1 return, but a one-off appearance at Le Mans or Bathurst? That's a door he's keeping open.