F1 Misses Daniel Ricciardo's Iconic Presence Four Years After His Last Win

F1 Misses Daniel Ricciardo's Iconic Presence Four Years After His Last Win

Daniel Ricciardo's vibrant personality and trademark smile are sorely missed in Formula 1, especially as the four-year mark since his last victory passes. His unique character brought an undeniable charm to the paddock, captivating fans globally.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's blend of on-track talent and off-track charisma made him a fan favorite and a significant asset to F1's expanding global appeal, particularly in the crucial US market. His absence leaves a void that highlights the importance of driver personalities in the sport.

The Details:

• On September 12, 2021, Ricciardo secured his final F1 victory at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, famously celebrating with a "shoey" on the podium.
• His full-time F1 driving career concluded shortly after, amid speculation about his future, though he left a parting gift by setting the fastest lap at the Singapore Grand Prix, denying Lando Norris a point and aiding Max Verstappen's championship bid.
• Now, Ricciardo has embraced life away from the demanding F1 schedule, stating to GQ Australia earlier this year, "The greatest thing about my days now is not having a schedule."
• He has definitively ruled out a return to F1 as a driver. Instead, he supports Racing Bulls' F1 Academy entry through his brand, Enchanté, and recently became a brand ambassador for Ford Racing.

Ricciardo's Enduring Appeal:

Ricciardo's infectious smile and playful demeanor resonate with fans across the spectrum, regardless of their team allegiances. His ability to foster genuine connections with other drivers, such as Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, humanized the intense rivalries and brought a relatable element to the sport.

• "I’ve been trying to figure out who I am other than this race car driver. I’ve had a lot of time, I’ve done some hiking. I was in Alaska a few weeks ago and didn’t get mauled by a grizzly which was a bonus," he quipped at a recent conference, showcasing his continued humor.
• His marketability remains high, a testament to his intriguing personality and universal likeability, which are vital for F1's continued growth.

Key to F1's US Expansion:

Ricciardo played a crucial role in Formula 1's efforts to grow its viewership in the United States, skillfully embracing local cultures and connecting with American sports fans.

• He often tailored his style to specific locales, noting, "The more I travel though, the more I recognise I am drawn to the styles of each place. For example, I really lean into boots when I am in Texas. I guess you could say I dress to the setting and go with the flow."
• His support for US sports teams, like wearing a Texas Longhorns-inspired helmet or showing continuous backing for the Buffalo Bills, helped bridge the gap between F1 and established American fan bases, attracting new audiences to the sport.

What's Next for Ricciardo?

While Ricciardo has retired from driving, the paddock remains open for his return in other capacities. Former team boss Laurent Mekies has expressed excitement about Ricciardo's continued involvement through his Ford link-up.

• He can still leverage his personality to connect F1 with fans, potentially through media projects, despite a planned Hulu series 'Downforce' not moving forward.
• A move into broadcasting would be a natural fit, given his strong rapport with drivers and ability to create memorable moments, further enriching F1's media landscape.
• For now, the F1 world awaits his next move, but his engaging presence is deeply missed.