Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Daniel Ricciardo, Motorsport, Formula 1
Tom Jenkins
Daniel Ricciardo has announced a deal with Global Ford Racing as the Australian makes his return after being axed by Racing Bulls during the 2024 F1 season.
Ricciardo has been one of the biggest names in motorsport since he burst onto the scene at Red Bull Racing in 2014, with his late-breaking and aggressive style earning him a worldwide fandom.
However, the 36-year-old's career ended far from how he would have hoped following his early promise.
After an impressive two-season stint at Renault, Ricciardo made the move to McLaren, where his career quickly took a turn for the worse despite winning the 2021 Italian Grand Prix.
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Ricciardo was replaced by current world championship leader Oscar Piastri for the 2023 season, leaving him without a seat after failing to match Lando Norris' performances for the Papaya.
The Aussie was then offered a life line by Racing Bulls, however, was once again replaced after disappointing results following the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix by Liam Lawson.
Ricciardo has kept a low profile since leaving F1, but made a surprise comeback on Friday as he announced he had joined Global Ford Racing as a brand ambassador.
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The 36-year-old's role will be in the high-performance division of the Ford Motor Company.
Following the news, Ricciardo released the following blog post via Ford.
"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 to become a Global Ford Racing Ambassador," he began.
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“I am going to be working closely with the Ford Racing team and specifically focus on the amazing Raptor brand and lifestyle that Raptor has become for many of Ford's customers.”
He added: “I couldn’t be more excited for all the amazing drives ahead with Ford and for all the incredible projects Ford Racing has in its pipeline.
“From F1 to Dakar and from Le Mans to Bathurst, few companies have been at this for as long as you guys have. From what I have seen, we have an incredible future ahead, and I am so proud to be joining the team."
Many fans had hoped Ricciardo would consider making a move to IndyCar, following Colton Herta's transfer to Cadillac F1 to become their first test driver.
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However, this news all but confirms Ricciardo won't be making any sort of return to a grid.