Ricciardo, who raced in F1 between 2014 and 2022, took eight race victories for Red Bull and McLaren.
He returned to F1 mid-2023 with AlphaTauri but was axed two-thirds of the way through the 2024 campaign. His final event took place in Singapore, just over two years ago, when it was common knowledge that he would be replaced by Liam Lawson, though official confirmation only came the next week.
Ricciardo’s Career and Post-Racing Life
Ricciardo has not raced since in any category, later confirming his retirement, though remains loosely affiliated to motorsport through his role as a Ford ambassador.
He said there have been certain phases in the last two years that he has adapted to and understood.
Ricciardo explained that the first phase after his exit was trying to stay strong and hide his true feelings. He said he was “very hurt inside” and felt a sense of humiliation.
Coming to Terms with His Exit
Ricciardo admitted that he went through a phase of sadness and growth, and is now feeling a sense of relief. He said he is happy to let go of certain things and focus on his personal life, including spending more time with family and rebuilding friendships.
He also accepted that Red Bull ending his career in 2024 was the right thing for him. Ricciardo said he had to “dig very deep to find something” during his later years, whereas before it was easy.
When asked about using the term “humiliation” to describe his axing, Ricciardo said it’s how he became “wired” after a 13-year F1 career. He explained that he built a ruthlessness over the years, which can be inward as well, making him harsh on himself and expect a lot.
Ricciardo said he understood that he was hiding from the humiliation in the months following his exit. He would put on a facade in public, but deep inside, he felt a lot of pain and sadness.
Reflection and Moving Forward
Ricciardo reflected on his career, saying, “There’s things in the past I loved, and why I did it for so long, and things I’m happy to let go of. Normal things that are beautiful, more time with family, and rebuilding a lot of friendships that may have drifted.”
