Formula One fans received a surprise sighting over the weekend as former racing driver Daniel Ricciardo was spotted amongst the crowd at the Gtech Community Stadium.
From the Racetrack to the Stands
The Australian sporting icon, famously a Manchester United supporter, was seen watching Brentford secure a stunning 3-1 comeback victory against Newcastle United on Sunday. Despite the Magpies taking an early lead with a goal from Harvey Barnes, the Bees fought back in the second half. Strikes from Kevin Schade and a brace from Igor Thiago, including one from the penalty spot, sealed a huge three points for the home side.
Ricciardo, keeping a low profile with a pair of sunglasses, appeared to be sporting a new, longer beard—a marked change from his clean-shaven F1 days. The man nicknamed 'the Honey Badger' had previously joked about his new look, stating in August, 'The beard is my comfort right now. I had a fallout with my barber and then I lost my razor. It’s been a tough six months.'
Life After Formula One
Ricciardo's appearance at the football match comes at a significant time, following his departure from the Formula One grid after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko cited a loss of the driver's characteristic 'killer instinct' as the reason for his exit, concluding a decorated 13-year career that included 8 race wins and 32 podium finishes across 257 starts.
After a period of 'self-exploration', the beloved driver has now firmly announced his next move, putting retirement speculation to rest. In a definitive statement, Ricciardo confirmed that 'his racing days were over' as he embarks on a new chapter.
A New Role as Ford Racing Ambassador
Ricciardo has landed a prestigious new position, joining American automotive giant Ford as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador. In a statement on the company's website, he expressed his excitement for the new role, which will see him working closely with the Ford Raptor brand.
'While my racing days are behind me, my love for anything with wheels will always remain high, and for that I am proud to be partnering with Ford,' Ricciardo wrote. He added, 'From F1 to Dakar and from Le Mans to Bathurst, few companies have been at this for as long as you guys have.'
The Aussie star took to social media to share the news with his followers, posting: 'Kicking back but always seeking the thrill. Nothing does it better than a Ford Raptor. Proud to be the newest ambassador of Ford Racing.' This new venture ensures that while he may have left the cockpit, Daniel Ricciardo's connection to the world of high-octane motorsport is far from over.
