Ricciardo Opens Up About Life After F1: 'Life Feels a Little More Real'

Daniel Ricciardo has opened up about adjusting to life away from the Formula 1 grid, admitting that stepping back from the intense calendar has made his day-to-day existence feel "a little more real."

The eight-time Grand Prix winner retired after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, replaced at Racing Bulls by Liam Lawson. Now, he is enjoying the simple pleasures of a settled routine outside the paddock.

Why it matters:

Ricciardo's candid reflection highlights the often-underestimated human side of F1 life – the constant travel, compressed family time, and the disconnect from normal routines. His perspective offers fans a genuine look at what it means to leave the sport behind after a decade at the top.

The details:

• Speaking on Conor Daly's Speed Street podcast, Ricciardo explained: "I'm enjoying just the slower pace of life and ultimately being able to be in one place."
• He now spends meaningful time in Australia with family and friends, something he always missed during his racing years. "When you're rushing things, it doesn't really feel real… So now life feels a little more real."
• Ricciardo remains active as a global Ford ambassador, driving the Raptor T1+ off-road and taking part in the 2026 Ford launch with Red Bull Racing.
• He also runs his Enchanté brand, which recently announced a collaboration with Daly for the upcoming Indianapolis 500 called the Enchanté 500.

What's next:

While Ricciardo has no plans to return to F1, his involvement with Ford and Enchanté keeps him connected to motorsport. The Enchanté 500 partnership suggests he may expand his presence in IndyCar, though he has stated he is content with his current chapter – one that allows him to feel grounded and present for the first time in years.