Daniel Ricciardo backed for F1 return despite RB axe

An image of Australian F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo — Photo: © IMAGO

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Ricciardo backed for F1 return despite RB axe

The Australian driver was sacked by VCARB back in September

Kevin McKenna

Thursday 19 December 2024 23:00 Updated: 23:21

Australian star Daniel Ricciardo has been tipped to come back to Formula 1, having been released by VCARB just months ago.

The veteran was supplanted by Liam Lawson at the Red Bull junior team, an audition which saw the Kiwi win the Red Bull seat opposite Max Verstappen in 2025.

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Ricciardo had hoped to demonstrate he was worthy of earning a spot at Red Bull, with whom he spent five years earlier in his career, but struggled to show the form which previously made him one of the hottest properties on the F1 grid.

Liam Lawson was the man chosen to take his spot at RB, and the 22-year-old clearly did enough in his six outings towards the end of last season to impress Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who this week confirmed the Kiwi driver would replace Sergio Perez in 2025.

Daniel Ricciardo was dismissed by VCARB in September

Liam Lawson replaced the Australian for the final six races of 2024

Ricciardo weighs up his options

The 35-year-old has received offers from across the world to compete in a variety of motorsport series, but for now, his next move remains a mystery.

Respected broadcaster Marc Priestley admits he has no idea what the immediate future holds for Ricciardo, but believes that he would be a huge success should he choose to make the move into punditry.

Speaking to Casino Uden Rofus, Priestley said: "Ricciardo would be a great pundit, he's a media dream, but I don't know what he'll do next.

F1 broadcaster Marc Priestley believes Ricciardo would be suited to punditry

"Some drivers decide they want to get out of the car and spend time with their family and friends.

"After six months or a year, they decide they want to come back into the sport in some way.

"It comes down to Ricciardo's decision, but I have no doubt he'll pick whatever suits him because for once, Ricciardo has the freedom to do whatever he wants to do.

"After being in a controlled environment for so long, it must be a nice feeling for him."

Red Bull Max Verstappen Daniel Ricciardo Christian Horner Sergio Perez FIA