Ricciardo opens door to staggering Max reunion in iconic race
Daniel Ricciardo has teased a future venture that would allow fans to see him behind the wheel again, this time with Red Bull icons and former teammates Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
Opening up on F1’s Beyond the Grid podcast, Ricciardo reflected extensively on his Formula 1 career and the bittersweet nature of his departure from the sport.
Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo could team up for a drive in Le Mans. Chris Graythen
When asked about putting his helmet back on, the Australian admitted he is in a much better headspace to consider his next move - specifically, a tilt at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Ricciardo has previously been linked to Le Mans through Ford, which is returning to the premier endurance race next year.
Earlier this year, Ford Global Racing Director Mark Rushbrook expressed an openness to offering Ricciardo a seat alongside Verstappen, who already has a well-documented interest in conquering the historic race.
While the Australian has declared himself retired from full-time competition, he revealed he is slowly warming to the idea of returning in a limited capacity.
“A year ago I would have said I will never put a helmet on again, I’m done,” he said.
“But there is something there where it would be nice for me to finish a racing career a bit more on my terms, so to do something when I take the helmet off I’m smiling and happy.
“Maybe that’s the last bit of closure I need.
“Maybe there’s one of those scenarios for sure that could perk me up.”
When pressed on building his “dream team” for Le Mans - which includes a three-man team - Ricciardo didn’t hesitate to name his ideal co-drivers, who were both former teammates and Red Bull champions.
“I don’t want to put pressure on him but no, obviously Max is a name that would be high on the list,” Ricciardo said.
“Him winning in car number 3...it made me feel a certain way, in a good way. Look, I’ll say Max is one.
Daniel Ricciardo has given his most in-depth interview since his F1 exit in an appearance on F1’s own Beyond the Grid podcast. F1
“We talked about Red Bull obviously in 2018...and I was trying to get back at the team at the end of my career, so maybe that’s a way that we could just give the people what they want.
“That could maybe get my neck harness back out. I haven’t done neck training in two years and it’s been fantastic. My neck’s got skinnier.”
Rounding out the ultimate trio, Ricciardo enthusiastically endorsed four-time world champion Vettel, whose own recent tests for Porsche have sparked comeback rumours.
“If it’s right and things align, and it feels right, and obviously, I’m there again for the right reasons then maybe I won’t say never,” Ricciardo said of the future.
“I freaking love Seb (Vettel) so that could be a nice little Red Bull reunion of sorts.”
