F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo, currently driving for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB) in Formula 1, has hinted at a potential move to NASCAR in the future. In a recent interview with Tourism Western AustraliaRicciardo shared his post-Formula 1 ambitions and expressed a desire to explore opportunities in other motorsports leagues, including NASCAR.
“There are things I would like to try and experience, I don’t know, let’s say at a competitive level,” explained Ricciardo. “Yeah, you know, I grew up a NASCAR fan, I’d like to drive a NASCAR (car). I’d like to drive around Daytona (International Speedway) for example,” Ricciardo revealed.
The idea of a former Formula 1 driver moving on to NASCAR is not unprecedented. Racing legends such as Juan Pablo Montoya, Kamui Kobayashi, Kimi Raikkonen and Jacques Villeneuve have done the same thing. And if you already know the Australian’s love for the United States, his interest in NASCAR will not be a surprise.
Ricciardo is also said to be aware of PROJECT91, an initiative led by Trackhouse Racing co-owner Justin Marks and Grammy-winning artist Pitbull to attract international racing stars to NASCAR. Initially open to Kimi Raikkonen, PROJECT91 has a slot that could very much appeal to Ricciardo.
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Marks noted Ricciardo’s awareness of the project, suggesting potential interest from the team. However, in 2022, Ricciardo was primarily focused on securing his Formula 1 future, despite these nascent opportunities in NASCAR.
While some might expect Ricciardo to jump at the chance, he is still focused on a seat at the Red Bull F1 team,
In conversation with Adam Stern of Sports Business JournalRicciardo said the following:
“Do I want to compete? Yes and no. But I also know that it’s not what I grew up doing, and I probably would have drowned like that, I don’t know if it’s necessary, but I’d like to experience it.”, he admitted. .
Ricciardo’s future in Formula 1 remains somewhat uncertain as he still trails teammate Yuki Tsunoda by 10 points. For now, he has not secured a contract for the 2025 season, and the competition is fierce. Long-time Red Bull Racing reserve driver Liam Lawson is in contention for a seat at sister team Red Bull.
VCARB is expected to confirm its second driver alongside Yuki Tsunoda after the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. Speaking to ViaPlay, the Red Bull consultant said the following: via Crash.net.
“We have an idea, so wait until Singapore. It is still September and then we will have a clear picture.
“It will be clear here what will happen.”