Former Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo has revealed he is 90% at peace with the end of his grand prix career, but admitted he would consider a one-off race such as Le Mans to finish on his own terms. The eight-time grand prix winner stepped away from the sport two years ago, initially feeling done with racing altogether, but his perspective on putting on a helmet again has shifted.
A Potential One-Off Appearance
Speaking on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Ricciardo explained that while a full championship still does not sound exciting, a single event like Le Mans appeals to him. He noted that Formula 1 requires a necessary selfishness, whereas sharing a car with teammates and collaborating on data would offer a different kind of companionship. With his intense competitive fire having faded to a degree, he believes he would genuinely enjoy that style of racing and find fulfillment in the art of competition again.
Ricciardo noted that he never fully enjoyed driving itself as much as he revelled in competition, though his final years in Formula 1 dampened that enthusiasm. While Le Mans could provide a new path to fulfillment, the Australian driver remains cautious and has not been training as intensely as he once did. He wants to ensure any potential return stems from personal desire rather than ego or a search for a fairy-tale ending, acknowledging that a part of him also wants to deliver a satisfying conclusion for supporters who disliked how his F1 career ended.
Reflecting on the competitive mindset required, Ricciardo questioned whether he could simply soak in the experience or if his natural drive to win would take over once his helmet was on. He stated that he would want to compete properly, which requires him to understand if his heart is truly in the prospect.
Dream Teammates for Le Mans
When discussing potential drivers to share a car with, Ricciardo mentioned fellow Red Bull icons. He named Max Verstappen high on his list, joking about a potential reunion after they previously discussed teaming up during his career. Verstappen has also expressed future interest in competing at Le Mans.
When podcast interviewer Tom Clarkson suggested adding Sebastian Vettel—who tested a Porsche Hypercar in 2024—to form a dream trio, Ricciardo enthusiastically reacted by saying he loves Vettel. He added that the German driver remains extremely fast in any machinery, making the lineup an appealing potential Red Bull reunion.
