Former Red Bull Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo has dropped a major hint that he is plotting a sensational return to competitive motorsport, despite announcing his retirement from racing just three months ago.
From F1 Ambassador to Off-Road Aspirations
In a surprising twist, the 36-year-old Australian, who penned an emotional open letter to fans in late 2024 stating his 'racing days were behind him', is now eyeing a future behind the wheel of a Ford Raptor. Ricciardo transitioned into a role as a global ambassador for Ford's racing division, focusing on the Raptor brand.
His passion for off-road driving became evident during the Ford Raptor Rally in Lake Havasu, Arizona, in October. Ricciardo shared Instagram footage of himself first riding shotgun, then taking control of a powerful Raptor T1+ prototype. This experience appears to have reignited his competitive fire.
The Lure of Baja and the Australian Outback
Ricciardo has now openly discussed his desire to compete in major off-road events. He specifically named the legendary Baja 1000 in Mexico and Australia's gruelling Finke Desert Race as potential targets for 2026.
'The itch for Baja is there, but I’ve got a lot to learn,' Ricciardo admitted in discussions with Ford. 'A few more of these events, and then ask me next year, and we’ll see where I’m at!'
This potential pivot follows a difficult final season in Formula 1. Ricciardo's last Grand Prix was the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, after which he was dropped by the RB team. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko had suggested the veteran driver had lost his edge.
Ford's Stance on a Competitive Future
While speculation mounts about a professional racing contract, Ford's global racing boss, Mark Rushbrook, has tempered expectations. He confirmed Ricciardo's genuine passion for off-road and the Raptor brand, noting the driver owned one long before their partnership.
'At this point, I can say there is no plan for competition,' Rushbrook stated on the KTM Summer Grill podcast. 'But you never know what the future holds.'
If Ricciardo does make a comeback, it will not be in Formula One. The Aussie has been spotted enjoying dirt bike events, signalling a clear shift towards extreme off-road motorsport. His journey from the pinnacle of circuit racing to the dust of the desert represents a fascinating new chapter for one of the sport's most popular figures.
