The last few years of Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 career have been a rollercoaster. After a difficult farewell to McLaren at the end of 2022, the Australian spent 2023 as Red Bull's third driver, before being recalled to the wheel at AlphaTauri to replace Nyck de Vries. An opportunity that seemed to be able to relaunch his career, but which turned into yet another disappointment. Despite the team's confidence for 2024, the inconsistent performances led Racing Bulls - the new name of the team - to replace him during the season with Liam Lawson. A bitter epilogue, which has permanently distanced Ricciardo from the grid, leaving room for speculation about his possible return, fueled by the announcement of Cadillac's entry into F1 in 2026.

Cadillac Rumors and Daniel's Denial
The announcement of Cadillac's entry into F1 in 2026 has sparked debate over possible candidates for the two new seats, with Ricciardo's name often at the center of discussions. The prospect of his return seemed intriguing, especially in a new and ambitious project, but the driver himself extinguished all hopes with a dry response: "Nah, I'm done!"
The statement, made during a meeting with some fan and captured on video, confirms Ricciardo's desire to close the F1 chapter. Despite the suggestion of a return, the driver would have turned 37 in 2026, an age that, combined with recent difficulties, made the choice to bet on him unlikely.
Cadillac's Future Choices
Cadillac, which will do its part debut in Formula 1 in collaboration with Andretti Global, has expressed its intention to field a mix of experience and young talent. Among the candidates are emerging drivers such as Colton Herta, Jack Doohan and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, but also veterans who may be available in 2026.
For Daniel Ricciardo, however, the door seems definitively closed. After a career marked by memorable victories and difficult challenges, the Australian has chosen to turn the page, leaving behind a complex but indelible legacy.