Ricciardo Transitions to Ford Racing Ambassador Role

Daniel Ricciardo, a celebrated figure in Formula 1, has officially stepped away from competitive racing, embracing a new position as an ambassador for Ford’s racing division, according to international reports released on Friday.

Ricciardo, aged 36, had been facing challenges in his racing career. After failing to make a significant impact and reclaim a spot at Red Bull, Racing Bulls released him last October. Furthermore, McLaren had previously dropped him at the close of the 2022 season.

The Australian racer boasts an impressive record of eight F1 race victories. He also gained considerable popularity through his appearances in the initial season of the widely acclaimed Netflix series, ‘Drive to Survive’. Following a year-long absence from racing, his departure from the sport was widely anticipated, and Ricciardo has now formally confirmed his retirement.

“Although my days of racing are now in the past, my passion for anything on wheels remains strong. I am therefore delighted to be partnering with Ford as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador,” he stated.

“I will be working in close collaboration with the Ford Racing team, with a particular focus on the remarkable Raptor brand and the lifestyle it represents for many Ford customers.

“Why now, and why me? When I came to the decision to retire, I carefully considered the most genuine way to maintain my connection with the world of motorsports.

“For me, racing was always about enjoying the experience. It brought me happiness and created memories that I will always cherish.”

Since his departure from F1 after the Singapore Grand Prix the previous year, Ricciardo reportedly received offers from teams in both IndyCar and NASCAR.

Ford has established ties with his former team, Red Bull, by providing support to their new F1 engine department, which will contribute to the engines utilized in 2026 and beyond.