Daniel Ricciardo acknowledges the possibility that he may not return to Formula 1, but he is more at peace with the potential of leaving than he was two years ago.
Reports prior to the Singapore Grand Prix suggested that Ricciardo’s position at RB was uncertain depending on his performance at the Marina Bay Circuit, with reserve driver Liam Lawson waiting in the wings.
Following a disappointing race where Ricciardo finished 18th after a failed strategy, he expressed regret that the desired outcome did not occur. His fastest lap during the race caused controversy by taking a point away from Lando Norris in his title battle with Max Verstappen.
Despite the outcome, Ricciardo stated that he feels better leaving Singapore than he did after his departure from McLaren in 2022 when he lost his seat to Oscar Piastri.
Reflecting on his return with RB, Ricciardo mentioned, “If this is it, let’s say I have a little bit more peace and I’m proud of the career.”
Daniel Ricciardo, RB F1 Team VCARB 01, Kevin Magnussen, Haas VF-24
Photo by: Lionel Ng / Motorsport Images
Ricciardo admitted that “there is a realistic chance that it’s not going to happen” when asked about the United States Grand Prix. He expressed readiness for the possibility of his F1 career coming to an end.
During the Singapore race, Ricciardo became the 10th most experienced driver in F1 history with his 257th start, surpassing Riccardo Patrese’s tally.
Reflecting on the uncertain future with RB, Ricciardo mentioned, “Sometimes you’ve got to see a big picture and I always said, ‘I don’t just want to be a guy that’s here on the grid and fighting for a point every now and then’, which has kind of been how this year’s gone.”
