Daniel Ricciardo has opened up on life after his Formula 1 exit during the Ray White Connect conference at The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Queensland, Australia.
The former driver abruptly left the championship after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix. Driving for VCARB (now known as Racing Bulls) at the time, the Australian driver was replaced by Liam Lawson for the remainder of the 2024 season.
Ricciardo has kept a relatively low profile since his exit, focusing on his other business ventures, including his clothes brand Enchanté and international wine company DR3 Wines.
The eight-time grand prix winner joined interviewer Mel McLaughlin on stage at the conference for a sit-down interview.
“Well, I haven’t been shaving my face. The beard is my comfort right now,” Ricciardo explained in his typical light-hearted manner. “This year has been a bit of self-exploration. I lived this crazy high-speed life for so long and this year I’ve sat into a little bit of stillness.
“I’ve had a lot of time, I’ve done some hiking. I was in Alaska a few weeks ago and didn’t get mauled by a grizzly, which was a bonus. I’ve been trying to figure out who I am other than this race car driver. I’ve come to appreciate the little things more and the meaning of the importance of family and friends.
“I’ve always been driven and that sometimes leads you to being selfish, so I’m trying to learn to be a bit more selfless and become a better listener.”
Daniel Ricciardo, Visa Cash App RB F1 Team, arrives at the track
Photo by: Simon Galloway / Motorsport Images
Ricciardo had been linked to a potential return to F1 with the new Cadillac team, which is set to join the grid in 2026. But team principal Graeme Lowdon confirmed during the High Performance podcast that the 36-year-old was not interested in returning.
“Yeah, actually, I think he’s publicly said that he’s not interested in Formula 1,” Lowdon explained.
He then added: “If I need to convince someone, then it’s the wrong person.
“You never need to convince a Formula 1 driver to jump in the car. I’ve got no problem; everyone can make their own mind up.”
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