BREAKING : Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 Record Cleared as He Steps Into New Motorsport ROLE… Read more
Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 Record Cleared as He Steps Into New Motorsport Role
Daniel Ricciardo’s Formula 1 penalty record has finally been wiped clean, closing one chapter of his career just as another begins. The popular Australian driver is now back to zero penalty points on his FIA superlicence, with the points he picked up at the 2024 Italian Grand Prix having finally expired.
In Formula 1, penalty points remain on a driver’s record for 12 months, and if a driver collects 12 within that period, they face a one-race suspension. Ricciardo had been carrying a single point since last year’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza, where he was judged to have forced Haas driver Kevin Magnussen off track. With the one-year mark now passed, his record is officially clean once again.
The milestone comes at a time when Ricciardo’s Formula 1 journey has all but reached its end. Once regarded as one of the sport’s brightest stars, the 35-year-old was released from his contract by the Visa Cash App RB team (VCARB) in September 2024. The Red Bull junior outfit opted to part ways with him earlier than expected, paving the way for New Zealander Liam Lawson to take over his seat.
That decision proved pivotal, as Lawson’s strong performances quickly turned heads. He impressed so much that within months, Red Bull promoted him to the senior team in place of Sergio Perez. For Ricciardo, however, the move effectively signaled the curtain call on his Formula 1 career.
Since leaving the grid, Ricciardo has largely stayed out of the racing spotlight, spending time with friends and family while weighing up his next steps. Earlier this week, though, he confirmed a new chapter by announcing his return to motorsport in an official capacity. The eight-time grand prix winner has been appointed Global Ford Racing Ambassador, a role that will see him represent the iconic brand across multiple motorsport projects worldwide.
Despite never formally announcing his retirement from Formula 1, Ricciardo has admitted that a return is highly unlikely. He was briefly linked to the new Cadillac Formula 1 entry set for 2026, but he personally dismissed the speculation. Asked about the possibility earlier this year, Ricciardo said simply: “Nah, I’m done,” a comment widely interpreted as an unofficial farewell. Cadillac has since confirmed its 2026 lineup, signing Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, eliminating any remaining chance of a Ricciardo comeback.
Looking back, Ricciardo’s Formula 1 career was one filled with highs, near-misses, and unforgettable moments. After debuting in 2011, he rose to prominence with Red Bull between 2013 and 2018, during which he claimed all eight of his race victories and 32 podium finishes. Known for his bold overtakes, trademark smile, and lively personality, he quickly became a fan favourite. Yet despite flashes of brilliance during later stints with Renault, McLaren, and VCARB, Ricciardo was never again able to mount a serious challenge for race wins on a consistent basis.
Although his days as a Formula 1 driver appear over, Ricciardo’s enduring popularity and deep ties to motorsport ensure that his presence will continue to be felt. His clean slate on the superlicence may no longer matter competitively, but it neatly bookends a career defined as much by charm and character as by results on track.
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