Daniel Ricciardo Joins US Car Brand Amid F1 Retirement

Daniel Ricciardo’s next chapter after Formula 1 has officially begun, with the Australian driver stepping into a new role as Global Ambassador for Ford Racing.



The announcement marks a fresh direction for the eight-time Grand Prix winner, who has largely stayed out of the public spotlight since leaving Formula 1 at the end of last season. Ricciardo confirmed the news through a social media post, where he shared his enthusiasm for the new partnership alongside a short promotional video.



“Kicking back but always seeking the thrill,” Ricciardo wrote. “Nothing does it better than a Ford Raptor . Proud to be the newest ambassador of Ford Racing.”



Transition After Formula 1



Daniel Ricciardo’s departure from the F1 grid came after last year’s Singapore Grand Prix, closing the book on a career that spanned over a decade at the highest level of motorsport. Since then, the 35-year-old has taken time away from the spotlight to focus on his personal life and identity beyond racing.



In recent interviews, he admitted he had been going through “a bit of self-exploration,” taking time to rediscover who he was away from the demands and intensity of Formula 1. This period of reflection appears to have paved the way for his new involvement in motorsport, albeit in a different capacity.



A New Partnership With Ford



Ford Racing, the performance arm of the Ford Motor Company, will now count Ricciardo among its most recognizable faces. His ambassadorship will not only focus on Ford’s long-standing motorsport heritage but also highlight the Raptor brand, a line of high-performance off-road vehicles that has become iconic for the company.



“While my racing days are behind me, my love for anything with wheels will always remain high,” Ricciardo explained in a statement on Ford Racing’s website. “For that I am proud to be partnering with Ford to become a Global Ford Racing Ambassador.”



The partnership will see Ricciardo engage with fans and Ford enthusiasts worldwide, emphasizing the adventurous lifestyle associated with the Raptor brand.



Looking Ahead With Ford Racing



Ricciardo made clear his excitement about what lies ahead in this new role. “I am going to be working closely with the Ford Racing team and specifically focus on the amazing Raptor brand and lifestyle that Raptor has become for many of Ford’s customers,” he said.



He also highlighted the depth of Ford’s motorsport legacy, citing the company’s involvement in some of the most prestigious racing categories in the world. “From F1 to Dakar and from Le Mans to Bathurst, few companies have been at this for as long as you guys have. From what I have seen, we have an incredible future ahead, and I am so proud to be joining the team.”



Celebrated Formula 1 Career



Ricciardo leaves behind an impressive racing record that cements his place as one of the sport’s most popular and successful modern drivers. Across 257 Formula 1 starts, he secured eight Grand Prix victories, 32 podium finishes, three pole positions, and more than 1,300 championship points.



Over the years, he represented several teams, beginning with HRT before moving to Toro Rosso (later known as AlphaTauri and RB), where he first showcased his potential. His big breakthrough came with Red Bull Racing, where he established himself as a consistent race winner. He later went on to compete with Renault and McLaren, producing memorable moments along the way.



Ricciardo’s personality and trademark smile made him a fan favorite across the globe, and while he is no longer on the Formula 1 grid, his presence in motorsport remains strong through this new role with Ford.



A Fresh Chapter



For Ricciardo, the transition into brand ambassadorship reflects both a continuation of his passion for cars and a step into a broader lifestyle role. With Ford Racing emphasizing performance, adventure, and innovation, his involvement is expected to resonate strongly with both motorsport enthusiasts and a wider audience.



Though his competitive racing career may be over, Ricciardo’s influence in the automotive and racing worlds is set to endure. His collaboration with Ford ensures he will continue to inspire fans while embracing new opportunities beyond the track.
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