Ricciardo confirms retirement from racing and new Ford role

Reuters

Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo confirmed on Friday (September 5) that his racing career has come to an end, announcing he will take on a new role as a global motorsports ambassador for Ford.

Ford is set to become Red Bull’s engine partner next season—Ricciardo’s former Formula One team, where he secured seven of his eight career victories.

The 36-year-old last competed in 2024 with Red Bull’s sister outfit, now known as Racing Bulls.

“While my racing days are behind me, my passion for anything on wheels remains as strong as ever. That’s why I’m proud to join Ford as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador,” Ricciardo wrote in a blog post for Ford Racing.

He added that when he decided to retire, he searched for the most authentic way to remain connected to motorsport. “For me, racing was always about fun. It made me happy and gave me memories that will last a lifetime.”

The announcement came as Formula One prepared for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, the circuit where Ricciardo famously triumphed with McLaren in 2021.

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