Ricciardo leaves door open for racing return, but only for fun, not titles

Daniel Ricciardo has not closed the door on a return to racing, but the eight-time Grand Prix winner makes it clear that if he ever gets back behind the wheel, it won't be with championship ambitions.

Speaking on Conor Daly's Speed Street podcast, the Australian reflected on his abrupt F1 exit at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix — where he was replaced at Racing Bulls by Liam Lawson — and what life after the sport looks like.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's stance offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of a driver who walked away from F1 at 35, with considerable success but no world title. His approach to a potential return — driven by joy rather than trophies — underscores how the sport's relentless pressure can drain passion, and that rediscovering it might require a completely different framework.

The details:

• Ricciardo admitted he needed distance from racing to rebuild a healthy relationship with it. "At the end of my career, I was like, ‘Why do I love it?’ And I just wanted to remove myself for a bit. But I think going to other races kind of rebuilt a healthy relationship with it."
• On a potential comeback: "Never say never. I’m really enjoying not competing where I currently sit, and just enjoying the small things in life."
• He emphasized any return would be purely for fun: "If I was to do something maybe one day, it would definitely be more from a fun aspect than, like, ‘I’m chasing some championship’ aspect. I don’t need to hold a trophy in something."
• Since leaving F1, Ricciardo has focused on building his Enchanté lifestyle brand and signed on as a brand ambassador for Ford, keeping him connected to motorsport without the stress of full-time competition.

What's next:

Ricciardo remains vague on timing or series, but his tone suggests no immediate plans. For now, he's content being a spectator and building ventures outside the cockpit. If he does return, expect it to be in a series that prioritizes enjoyment — possibly endurance racing or something entirely new.