Ricciardo’s Candid Post-F1 Life Admission

Daniel Ricciardo has opened up about his transition away from Formula 1, highlighting a major shift in his daily routine since stepping off the grid last year.

In a candid chat during a recent event for his karting series in the UK, the Australian driver described how he’s swapped the high-stakes world of grand prix racing for a more grounded existence. “I’ve finally got time to breathe,” Ricciardo said, noting that the biggest adjustment has been ditching the relentless travel and pressure for simple pleasures like home-cooked meals and unstructured days.

Ricciardo, who last raced for RB in 2024 before being replaced, admitted the change felt strange at first but has brought unexpected joy. He’s poured energy into his Daniel Ricciardo Racing initiative, mentoring young talents and staying connected to motorsport on his terms. “It’s not about chasing laps anymore—it’s about building something lasting,” he explained.

While rumours swirled earlier this year about a potential 2026 comeback, including links to new entrants like Cadillac, Ricciardo has firmly shut them down. Sources close to the team confirmed they’re not pursuing him, aligning with his own stance of no interest in returning to F1’s demands.

For now, the 36-year-old is content exploring options outside the sport, from media roles to other racing formats like NASCAR or Supercars, though nothing is set in stone. As the 2025 F1 season progresses without him—featuring line-ups like Max Verstappen at Red Bull and Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari—Ricciardo’s focus remains on this fresh chapter, proving life after the paddock can be just as rewarding.