Daniel Ricciardo hints at potential off-road racing return with Ford Raptor program

Daniel Ricciardo has left the door open for a potential return to competition, not in Formula 1, but in the world of off-road racing through his role as a global Ford Racing ambassador. The 36-year-old, whose F1 career ended abruptly in late 2024, is immersing himself in Ford's Raptor program, attending events and expressing a growing interest in tackling legendary races like the Baja 1000.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's post-F1 path is taking shape through a passion project, offering fans a potential new avenue to see the popular driver compete. His genuine enthusiasm for off-road vehicles and Ford's open-ended approach suggest this ambassador role could evolve into something more competitive, keeping his name in the motorsport conversation in a completely different discipline.

The details:

• Ricciardo's official racing days appeared over when he stated they were "behind me" upon signing the Ford deal in late 2025, focused on promoting Raptor models.
• However, recent involvement has stoked the competitive fire. He attended the Raptor Rally in Arizona, riding in the passenger seat of a Raptor T1+ prototype used in events like the Dakar Rally.
• When asked about competing in the Baja 1000, Ricciardo admitted, "The itch for Baja is there, but I’ve got a lot to learn," adding, "A few more of these events, and then ask me next year, and we’ll see where I’m at!"
• Ford's global racing boss, Mark Rushbrook, confirmed the exploratory nature of the relationship, stating any competition plans are "to be decided" and that there is currently "no plan for competition, but you never know what the future holds."
• Rushbrook highlighted Ricciardo's long-standing personal passion, noting the driver owned a Raptor in Los Angeles long before their professional relationship began.

What's next:

The partnership is a natural extension of Ford's existing ties to Red Bull Racing, which Ricciardo was part of as a third driver. While a full-time Supercars drive has been speculated about but never seriously pursued by Ricciardo, the off-road scene presents a new and appealing challenge. If his learning curve continues positively, a guest appearance at a major event like Australia's Finke Desert Race or the Baja 1000 in 2026 seems a plausible next step, turning a brand ambassador role into a competitive comeback story.