Ricciardo given major F1 team ‘OFFER’ following brutal Red Bull…read More.
Daniel Ricciardo has reportedly been presented with a significant opportunity to remain involved in Formula 1, despite being recently dropped by the Visa Cash App Red Bull (VCARB) team. The Australian driver was replaced by rising star Liam Lawson for the final six races of the 2024 season, following a disappointing campaign. This decision has cast doubt on Ricciardo’s future in the sport, and the Singapore Grand Prix might have marked his last appearance in Formula 1.
If Ricciardo’s F1 career has indeed come to a close, it would conclude a remarkable journey that spanned 14 seasons. Over the course of his career, he secured eight race wins, three pole positions, and 32 podium finishes. Much of Ricciardo’s success came during his time with Red Bull Racing, and he rejoined the Red Bull family in 2023. Initially, he returned as a reserve driver, before securing a full-time seat with VCARB. However, his recent struggles and the team’s decision to move forward with Lawson have left Ricciardo’s place on the grid uncertain for 2025.
Given the limited number of available seats in Formula 1, Ricciardo may be forced to consider retirement. However, it appears that a lifeline has been offered to him, which could allow him to stay connected to the sport. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko recently spoke about the decision to drop Ricciardo and revealed that the team is interested in keeping him within their fold in an ambassadorial capacity. Marko acknowledged Ricciardo’s immense popularity, especially in the United States, where he has become one of Formula 1’s most beloved figures.
Speaking to Motorsport-Total, Marko explained that Red Bull would like to continue working with Ricciardo, though not as an active driver. “He is, especially in the United States, one of the most popular Formula 1 drivers,” Marko said. However, Marko admitted that he was uncertain whether Ricciardo would be willing to transition into a public relations role, given his longstanding passion for racing. “If he is no longer an active driver, I don’t know if he would then feel like doing those PR activities,” Marko remarked.
While the offer to become a Red Bull ambassador is on the table, Ricciardo has not yet made a decision about his future. Reports suggest that the 35-year-old has been exploring other options, including a possible move to a different motorsport series. There has been speculation linking Ricciardo to NASCAR, which has gained significant traction in recent months. However, Marko was quick to dismiss these rumors, expressing doubt that the Australian driver would take such a path. “I don’t believe that,” Marko said, in response to the growing NASCAR speculation.
As things stand, Ricciardo’s future remains unclear. If he chooses to retire from Formula 1, the sport will lose one of its most charismatic and popular figures. However, if he decides to accept Red Bull’s offer, fans could continue to see Ricciardo involved in the world of motorsport, albeit in a different capacity. Regardless of his decision, Ricciardo’s legacy as a talented and entertaining driver is already well established, and he will undoubtedly remain a beloved figure within the racing community.
