Not too long ago, Daniel Ricciardo still thought he’d be on the starting grid at the Brazilian Grand Prix, in the role of an F1 driver.
But following his anticipated replacement by Liam Lawson at Visa Cash App RB, the Australian took a completely different direction, spending his weekend in Buffalo, USA. A totally different experience for someone with eight Grand Prix victories, but he seems to have found a way to enjoy his new freedom.
Read more:
- We finally know Max Verstappen’s secret technique for being unstoppable in rainy races!
- Why did Lance Stroll end up in the gravel trap on the formation lap of the Brazilian GP?
A tough start, but a smile regained
At Racing Bulls (VCARB) this season, Ricciardo often struggled against his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda. More generally, it’s been since his return in 2023 that he’s had trouble making his F1 car work. The statistics speak for themselves: Tsunoda has doubled the Australian’s points tally, dominating both in qualifying and in the race. Meanwhile, Red Bull Racing was questioning its options, given Sergio Perez’s inconsistent performances, and ultimately decided to test Liam Lawson, a young New Zealander. A decision that must have been hard for Ricciardo to swallow, but he quickly bounced back.
F1: *complete chaos, dnfs, crashes, fights, drama*
meanwhile Daniel Ricciardo: pic.twitter.com/9pHqPaUDim
— Mia (@ricciardosbabe) November 3, 2024
A full weekend supporting the Buffalo Bills
Instead of the hustle and bustle of the Formula 1 paddocks, it was the Buffalo Bills stadium that welcomed Ricciardo this weekend. Surrounded by friends, he attended the Bills’ game against the Miami Dolphins, posting photos of himself sporting the local team’s colors. Luckily, his support proved useful, as the Bills clinched victory! Ricciardo even received a little shout-out from the team on social media, inviting him to come back anytime. A real treat for the former Australian driver, who has never hidden his love for American culture. Honestly, it’s nice to see him happy like this, despite the challenges he’s faced these last two seasons. His return to Formula 1 didn’t work out, but that doesn’t take away from what a fantastic person he is!
Enjoying a very different daily life and a golf cart
Clearly in great shape, Daniel Ricciardo had a blast, including getting behind the wheel… of a golf cart! Yes, you can’t change a good old habit; keeping a driver away from the wheel is a tough task. A scene far removed from the ultra-powerful 1000hp F1 cars he’s used to, but it shows how the Australian has managed to see the bright side of his retirement. Smiles and shared moments filled this weekend in Buffalo, showcasing a relaxed Ricciardo ready to embrace new experiences. Beyond his passion for sports, Ricciardo also ventured into winemaking, with a vineyard called DR3, for Daniel Ricciardo, with the 3 being the number he carried on track.
The unusual penalty given to Hulkenberg at the Brazilian GP hadn’t been seen in F1 for 17 years
This article explores how Daniel Ricciardo managed to bounce back after leaving F1, enjoying a weekend away from the paddocks. From reunions with friends to showing support for the Buffalo Bills, discover how the Australian is gradually distancing himself from the pressures of F1 to better refocus.
Featured image: Red Bull Content pool
