Daniel Ricciardo Rejects 2026 F1 Move with Cadillac: What’s Next for the Australian Driver?
Ricciardo’s Formula 1 Career: The End of the Road?
Daniel Ricciardo, the charismatic Australian driver known for his infectious personality and racing skill, has firmly rejected the idea of returning to Formula 1 with General Motors’ Cadillac team in 2026. While recent reports by Bild suggested that Ricciardo was the top contender for Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1, sources close to the driver have informed ESPN that Ricciardo has no interest in making a comeback with the new American team.
Ricciardo’s decision comes after a tumultuous year that saw his time with Red Bull Racing come to an abrupt end. After being dropped by the team following the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, Ricciardo had hoped for a return to the team that had given him his greatest successes. However, with that door closed, the Australian appears to have come to terms with the fact that his Formula 1 career has likely concluded.
A Career of Triumphs and Setbacks
Daniel Ricciardo’s Formula 1 journey has been filled with unforgettable moments. With eight career wins, including a thrilling victory at the 2022 Italian Grand Prix with McLaren, Ricciardo has proven his ability to compete at the highest level. However, his recent struggles with McLaren and his inability to secure a top seat for 2023 led to his eventual exit from the team. The hope was that a return to Red Bull would reignite his career, but after being let go, Ricciardo appears to have accepted that his time in Formula 1’s elite teams has come to an end.
Despite his deep ties to the sport, Ricciardo’s future in racing seems uncertain. Although he once expressed interest in NASCAR—particularly due to his admiration for Dale Earnhardt’s iconic No. 3 car—there have been signs that his enthusiasm for that venture has waned. So, as Ricciardo closes the door on a potential 2026 F1 comeback, the question remains: what does the future hold for the Australian driver? Could he find new excitement in another racing series, or is it the end of the road for Daniel Ricciardo’s racing career? For now, the answer remains unclear, but one thing is certain: Ricciardo’s legacy in Formula 1 is already cemented.
