In a disheartening turn for Ricciard-hoes worldwide, it seems that Daniel Ricciardo‘s F1 career might be drawing to a close following the Singapore Grand Prix. Yet, after 13 years racing the most advanced cars globally, he shares that he feels “at peace” with his accomplishments.
During the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday, Ricciardo finished in 18th place, earning no points for his team Visa Cash App RB.
Currently, Ricciardo faces significant uncertainty. Only two seats remain open for the 2025 Formula 1 season — his present position at RB and a seat at Sauber.
Ricciardo has clearly expressed his desire to return to his original team, Red Bull, after departing from McLaren at the close of the 2022 season. Although there are murmurs that Sergio Perez‘s position with Red Bull might become available if his performance doesn’t improve, he is officially signed on for 2025, making Ricciardo’s hopes of reclaiming a Red Bull seat appear rather slim.
In light of Ricciardo’s recent disappointing result — along with an overall challenging season — there are speculations that he might be replaced for the remainder of the season by Kiwi driver Liam Lawson. If these rumors hold true, Ricciardo might have already driven his final race as a primary driver in F1.
When questioned about whether Singapore might be his last race, a reflective Ricciardo acknowledged that his future in the sport seems uncertain.
“A lot of emotions because I’m aware it could be it. Also exhaustion after the race so just a flood of many emotions,” he conveyed to reporters.
“The cockpit is something that I got very used to for many years and I just wanted to savour the moment.”
Fortunately, after a 13-year tenure, he expresses pride in what he has accomplished.
“I do feel, let’s say, at peace with it. At some point, it’ll come for all of us,” he reflected.
“I tried to get back into Red Bull, it didn’t work out, so then I also have to say, ‘Okay, what else am I ultimately doing here and trying to achieve?’… Let’s say maybe the fairytale ending didn’t happen, but I also have to look back on what it’s been. Thirteen or so years and I’m proud.”
Even though the conclusion may be near, Ricciardo was named Driver of the Day by fans following the Singapore Grand Prix. While he notes that drivers typically don’t give much weight to it, this time, it held special significance.
“The Driver Of The Day thing isn’t really something us drivers look too much into but today I can say it’s something I’m appreciative of so that one today, means a little something.”
Ricciardo’s future in F1 is anticipated to be revealed by the end of the week, and it’s safe to say that if he doesn’t secure a seat, Drive To Survive will certainly feel different.
