Daniel Ricciardo Retires for Good, Joins Ford as Global Racing Ambassador
Daniel Ricciardo Announces Retirement from Motor Racing
Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed he has retired from motor racing for good, announcing the decision in an open letter that also unveiled his new role as Global Ford Racing Ambassador for the rebranded Ford Racing, formerly Ford Performance. The Formula 1 (F1) star’s retirement announcement immediately positions him in a high-profile motorsports role tied to Ford’s racing activities.
The eight-time Formula 1 race winner and early star of Netflix’s Drive to Survive said he has no plans to return to competition. “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 wrote. The confirmation answers a key fan question—will Daniel Ricciardo return to F1 or racing—and makes clear his competitive career is closed.
Focus on Ford Raptor Brand
Ricciardo said he will be closely aligned with Ford’s off-road lineup, highlighting a lifestyle focus that resonates with performance truck fans. “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.” The ambassador role centers on the Ford Raptor brand, a natural fit for enthusiasts searching for Ford Raptor Rally news and Ford performance events.
Timing and Motivation
Explaining the timing of his decision, Ricciardo added: “So why now and why me? When I decided it was time to retire, I thought long and hard about finding the most authentic way to stay connected to the world of motorsports. For me, racing was always about having fun. It made me happy and created memories that will last a lifetime.” The open letter frames Ricciardo’s retirement from Formula 1 and broader motorsports as a personal pivot rather than a competitive pause.
Post-F1 Career Choices
Since leaving F1 after the Singapore Grand Prix last year, Ricciardo received interest from IndyCar and NASCAR teams, but he has now made clear his competitive career is over. A source close to Ricciardo said his new Ford Racing position will not overlap with the company’s Formula 1 commitments, clarifying any confusion around Ford’s F1 program and Ricciardo’s next chapter.
Ford Racing Collaboration and Strategy
Ford, which is collaborating with Ricciardo’s former team Red Bull on its new F1 engine department for 2026 and beyond, said the brand refresh is designed to bring its “road and race car operations together under one roof.” The Red Bull–Ford collaboration on 2026 F1 engines underscores the broader context of Ford Racing’s rebrand and long-term performance strategy.
Upcoming Appearances
Ricciardo is expected to appear at fan-focused events, including the Ford Raptor Rally in October, as part of his ambassador duties. He noted his long-standing affinity for the truck, revealing he bought a Raptor in 2017 before purchasing a home in the United States. “Priorities, am I right?” he added in the letter. For readers searching for Daniel Ricciardo retirement news, Ford Racing ambassador updates, or details on the Ford Raptor Rally, this marks the beginning of his post-racing career.
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