Daniel Ricciardo, a veteran of Formula 1, recently made some insightful comments about his future, sparking discussions around his post-F1 plans. Amid rumors that his days in the F1 paddock may be numbered, Ricciardo opened up about other racing series he’d like to explore after Formula 1. The 35-year-old Australian, unfazed by speculation that rookie Liam Lawson could replace him at Red Bull after the Singapore Grand Prix, revealed that he’s keen to try different racing formats.
NASCAR and MotoGP Passion
In an interview with Tourism Western Australia this week, Ricciardo shared his admiration for NASCAR, stating that he grew up watching the American racing series. “I’ve always been a fan of NASCAR. I’d love to get behind the wheel of a NASCAR, especially at Daytona. But would I actually want to race? Both yes and no. I didn’t grow up in that culture, so I might get frustrated, but I’d still love to experience it,” Ricciardo admitted.
His love for NASCAR was solidified when he drove Dale Earnhardt’s 1984 Monte Carlo Chevrolet during the 2021 United States Grand Prix. Growing up idolizing the late NASCAR legend, Ricciardo was deeply touched by Earnhardt Jr.’s appreciation of his tribute to the family’s legacy.
Ricciardo’s passion isn’t limited to four wheels. The Australian has often expressed his love for motorcycles and even joked in the same interview that he’d love to try his hand at MotoGP. “I love bikes, but I’m incredibly slow, and I’d probably be terrible,” he said, acknowledging the challenge with humor.
V8 Supercars and Bathurst
Ricciardo also spoke about his desire to race at the iconic Bathurst circuit in Australia, a dream that holds personal significance. “I know they race V8s there, but there’s also the Bathurst 12-hour race. If a V8 team asked me to do a few laps, with no pressure, just for the experience, I’d definitely say yes,” he enthusiastically declared.
Retirement Dreams: A Quiet Life in Margaret River
Since joining Formula 1 in 2011, Ricciardo has called Los Angeles and Monaco home, but when it comes to retirement, he envisions returning to his roots. The Western Australian native shared his dream of retiring in the serene region of Margaret River. “I can absolutely see myself retiring in Margaret River one day. I love the lifestyle there; everything slows down, and it feels like a breath of fresh air. People are so connected to the land, and everyone seems free and happy. That’s my vision of retirement,” he said.
Uncertainty About His Future
Ricciardo’s comments come at a time when speculation around his future in Formula 1 is growing. With Red Bull and team management expected to finalize their 2025 lineup after the Singapore Grand Prix, rumors suggest that Ricciardo’s 13-year F1 career may be drawing to a close. However, with his passion for motorsport and interest in other racing formats, it’s clear Ricciardo won’t be stepping away from the track entirely anytime soon.