Daniel Ricciardo's career took a turn, perhaps definitive, a couple of weeks ago, when Red Bull decided to give his seat to Liam Lawson., ending his adventure in Formula 1. Having now explored every option without finding a fallback seat for the Italian-Australian driver, the idea of a return seems distant. However, for Christian Horner, Ricciardo remains a pillar of the team, and therefore he has not denied his return to Red Bull in the future.
Ricciardo retires, but Horner refuses to let him go
Daniel Ricciardo is currently “retired”. After the Visa Cash App RB stint, Daniel spoke of new adventures but for now there is nothing concrete. No change of category, no role as third driver. The last few months have been particularly difficult to digest. The comparison with Tsunoda made Red Bull understand that that seat was perhaps destined for a younger, more ambitious driver, and above all one who could be developed with a view to the future. Red Bull already had the perfect name: Liam Lawson. But why the team didn’t choose him from the start of the season for Visa Cash App RB, we don’t know, even if we can imagine.
Daniel Ricciardo is in fact a driver with great experience, who grew up in Red Bull, who knows the environment well and has already worked with Max Verstappen. A detail not insignificant, if we consider that Red Bull had thought of keeping him close in view of a potential exchange with Sergio Perez.
Horner: Red Bull is always ready to welcome him back
Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 career seems to have reached a turning point. With the rise of young talents like Lawson, and with Sergio Perez under contract with Red Bull until 2026, the chances of a return to the track for the Australian are slimming down. However, his connection to the Milton Keynes team remains strong, and his future could be more tied to ambassadorial roles for Red Bull, as is already the case for other former drivers of the team. If he decides to return, he will certainly be welcomed with open arms, even if it is in a role other than that of a driver.
On the Ricciardo issue, on his future and on the possibilities of a return to F1, Christian Horner, Red Bull team principal, also expressed his opinion:
“He grew up with Red Bull and is taking some time off at the moment, but he would be welcome, at any time, to join any role he decides to be involved in. – Horner explained – He has a high profile, so if he decided to get involved in some activity in the United States in some other way, we would be very open to that.”
Ricciardo is beloved by Formula 1 fans and, as Horner pointed out, he would be a very valuable asset for Red Bull, especially in side events or demonstrations, on a more commercial aspect. It is therefore not certain, indeed, it seems rather difficult that we will see him on the track again in place of Sergio Perez or some other driver.
What future for Ricciardo?
Christian Horner welcomed Ricciardo's return, suggesting that the Australian's future could be more tied to commercial or promotional activities for Red Bull. Ricciardo has previously attended events for the brand, and his charisma makes him a popular figure among fans. The Australian has long expressed his love for the United States, and it is no coincidence that the team principal spoke about the possibility of Ricciardo's direct involvement in this type of activity.
“Daniel has an incredible profile and could be an asset to events in the United States as well,” Horner said. “It’s a decision he will have to make, but we are ready to welcome him for whatever role he chooses.”
Statement source: FormulaPassion
