Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo has been hospitalized in Australia after sustaining a minor injury in a dirt bike accident earlier this week. The eight-time Grand Prix winner reportedly came off his bike on Thursday while riding in northern Queensland.
Why it matters
Ricciardo, a popular figure in Formula 1, is currently taking a break from the sport, and his well-being is of significant interest to fans and the F1 community. This incident marks a setback in his off-season.
The details
Ricciardo was riding in the Daintree region when the accident occurred. While specific details of the incident remain limited, he was transported to Mossman Hospital in Queensland for treatment. Reports indicate he was in good spirits despite the injury, believed to be to his collarbone. Mossman Hospital provides accident and emergency services as part of the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service.
His recent activities
The accident happened days after Ricciardo made his first major public appearance since stepping away from F1. He spoke at a real estate conference on the Gold Coast, reflecting on his life post-F1.
- He described his year as "self-exploration" and embracing "stillness" after a "crazy high-speed life."
- He mentioned hiking in Alaska and appreciating family and friends more, trying to be less selfish and a better listener.
- Ricciardo has kept a relatively low profile since his departure, appearing at a pop-up store for his fashion brand in Melbourne and playing padel in Europe.
What's next
Ricciardo's future in F1 has been a topic of much speculation. He was previously linked with a drive at Cadillac's potential F1 entry, but recent fan-captured video showed him stating he is "done" with F1. Cadillac boss Graeme Lowdon has also indicated a driver needing conviction is not the right fit. Ricciardo's F1 career, which began in 2011 and included eight Grand Prix wins, concluded after being overlooked for a return to a Red Bull senior seat.