After stepping away from Formula 1 in 2024, Daniel Ricciardo is now being tipped for a dramatic return to motorsport in 2025. The Australian driver, who had spent 14 seasons in F1 with teams like Red Bull, Renault, and McLaren, was dropped mid-season by VCARB due to a series of underwhelming performances. His replacement, Liam Lawson, further dimmed hopes of Ricciardo reclaiming a seat on the F1 grid anytime soon.
Initially, Ricciardo’s departure sparked speculation about whether he would attempt a comeback within Formula 1 or quietly retire. Many fans were divided—some believed he still had the talent for a final F1 chapter, while others accepted that his time had passed. With no immediate F1 opportunities surfacing, attention shifted to whether he might explore racing opportunities outside the sport.
Recently, veteran American motorsport journalist Bob Pockrass fueled rumors by suggesting Ricciardo could move to NASCAR in 2025. Speaking during FOX Sports’ annual predictions, Pockrass noted Ricciardo’s long-standing admiration for NASCAR, referencing his joy when he once drove Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s iconic car. Although Ricciardo previously dismissed NASCAR rumors, his current free-agent status adds weight to the possibility.
Pockrass emphasized that Ricciardo’s charisma and experience would be a major draw for NASCAR, both from a commercial and fan-engagement perspective. Teams and sponsors would likely welcome the global attention Ricciardo brings. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the speculation alone has reignited interest in the Australian driver’s next move.
Since leaving F1, Ricciardo has remained active on social media and has dabbled in various off-track ventures. However, the growing buzz about a NASCAR debut suggests that his passion for racing hasn’t faded. Should he join NASCAR, Ricciardo would bring both talent and personality to the grid—an exciting prospect for American motorsport fans eager to see how the Aussie adapts to a whole new racing environment.
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