Ricciardo leaves the door open addressing future racing return

Ricciardo was released by Racing Bulls after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. Following a difficult period, the Australian driver and fan favourite was replaced by Liam Lawson. He has since explained that he is now glad Racing Bulls made that call for him.

Speaking on the Speed Street podcast, the Australian, who still maintains ties to racing as a Ford ambassador and through his Enchanté brand's partnership with Racing Bulls' F1 Academy programme, was once again asked about his future in racing. He said: "I’m getting asked a little less of late, because I think I’ve probably told enough people. I want to be mature enough and I don’t want to be too black and white, because never say never."

For now, Ricciardo is happy off the track. "I'm really enjoying not competing, where I currently sit, and just enjoying the small things in life and not having to kind of be on a stage and all that.

"Do I know what I'll feel in three to five years? No, but I know right now. I think in any way, if I was to do something maybe one day, it would be definitely more from a fun aspect than a, like, 'I'm chasing some championship' aspect," he highlighted how he would like to pursue joy and fun over trophies.