- 8 race wins and 32 podium finishes in F1
- Mentors younger drivers and acknowledges his role as an inspiration
- One of the most charismatic and skilled drivers in F1.
Daniel Ricciardo, renowned as one of Formula One’s most charismatic and skilled drivers, boasts an impressive career filled with significant achievements. The Australian has notched up eight race wins and 32 podium finishes, placing him 35th on the all-time list. He has twice finished among the top three in the World Drivers’ Championship and notably surpassed Sebastian Vettel in the four-time champion’s final season with Red Bull Racing.
Since making his F1 debut in 2011, Ricciardo has competed in 14 consecutive seasons, amassing 1,329 points across 256 races, all while maintaining his trademark smile. Known as the “Honey Badger” for his blend of affable personality and fierce racing style, Ricciardo has evolved from a novice driver into a seasoned veteran, celebrated for his late-braking and bold overtaking maneuvers.
Ricciardo acknowledges the impact he can have on aspiring drivers and reflects on his role as an inspiration. “I realize that I have the platform to inspire someone who was just like me at a young age,” he told CNN Sport. “I’d love to give a kid something to aim for,” he added, emphasizing his desire to motivate the next generation of racers.
At 35, Ricciardo, the fourth-oldest driver on the F1 grid, embraces his role as a mentor to younger competitors. He humorously remarks, “No problem with being the older guy and trying to lend some wisdom,” showcasing his willingness to share his experiences and offer guidance to the next wave of drivers.
Ricciardo’s journey is highlighted in his new film, “Drive the Dream 2,” which captures a road trip around his home state of Western Australia with lifelong friend Blake Mills. The film explores local culture and features a visit to Ngilgi Cave, an Aboriginal site that left a profound impression on Ricciardo. “Josh, our Aboriginal elder, showed us around and played the didgeridoo, which was incredibly peaceful,” Ricciardo noted.
The Australian racing legacy is notable, with only 15 F1 drivers from the country but a history of 137 podium finishes and 44 victories. Jack Brabham won the World Drivers’ Championship in 1959 and 1960, and again in 1966 with his own car, while Alan Jones secured the title in 1980. Ricciardo became the 14th Australian driver in F1 when he debuted with HRT F1 Team in 2011 and has since competed alongside and against other Australian talent, including Oscar Piastri and soon-to-be F1 driver Jack Doohan.
Ricciardo’s career has seen its share of highs and lows. After starting with HRT and moving to Toro Rosso, he joined Red Bull Racing, where he achieved his first win in Canada in 2014 and secured multiple victories, including a memorable Monaco win in 2018. His time with Red Bull ended when he moved to Renault and later struggled at McLaren, though he secured his most recent victory at the Italian Grand Prix.
Now, with his contract expiring at the end of the year, Ricciardo faces significant pressure. Red Bull junior Liam Lawson, who substituted for Ricciardo in 2023, is poised for a full-time role. Ricciardo’s performance this season could influence his future, particularly with Red Bull’s second driver, Sergio Pérez, under scrutiny. Ricciardo expresses a desire for stability but remains open to a return to the team where he first tasted victory. “At this stage in my career, I’d like to focus on one clear goal without too much external noise,” he said.
As Ricciardo’s career unfolds, his journey continues to captivate fans, with his ultimate goal of becoming a World Champion still driving him. Despite the ups and downs, Ricciardo’s story remains compelling, as he remains dedicated to achieving his long-held dream of winning the championship before retiring.
