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 Australia, Ricciardo shared his post-Formula 1 ambitions and expressed a desire to explore opportunities in other leagues of motorsports, including NASCAR.
“There’s things I would like to try and experience, I don’t know, let’s say on a competitive level,” Ricciardo explained. “It’s, you know, I grew up a fan of NASCAR, I’d love to drive a NASCAR [car]. I’d love to drive around Daytona [International Speedway] for example,” Ricciardo revealed.
The notion of a former Formula 1 driver transitioning to NASCAR is not without precedent. Racing legends such as Juan Pablo Montoya, Kamui Kobayashi, Kimi Raikkonen, and Jacques Villeneuve have all done the same thing. And if you already know of the Australian’s love for the United States, his interest in NASCAR will not come as a surprise.
Ricciardo is also reportedly aware of PROJECT91, an initiative led by Trackhouse Racing’s co-owner Justin Marks and Grammy-winning artist Pitbull, aimed at bringing international racing stars into NASCAR. Initially opened to Kimi Raikkonen, PROJECT91 has a slot that could very much appeal to Ricciardo.
James Sutton/Getty Images
Marks has noted Ricciardo’s awareness of the project, suggesting potential interest from the team. However, in 2022, Ricciardo was primarily focused on securing his future in Formula 1, despite these budding opportunities in NASCAR.
While some might expect Ricciardo to leap at the chance, he is still focused on a seat in F1’s Red Bull team,
In conversation with Sports Business Journal’s Adam Stern, Ricciardo said the following:
“Would I like to compete? Yes and no. But I also know that it’s not what I grew up doing, and I would probably get smoked so like, I don’t know if I need that, but I would love to experience it,” he admitted.
The future of Ricciardo in Formula 1 remains somewhat uncertain as he still trails his teammate Yuki Tsunoda by 10 points. As of now, he hasn’t secured a contract for the 2025 season, and competition is fierce. Liam Lawson, a long-standing Red Bull Racing reserve driver, is in contention for a seat in Red Bull’s sister team.
It’s expected that VCARB will confirm its second driver alongside Yuki Tsunoda following the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. Speaking to ViaPlay, Red Bull consultant said the following, via Crash.net.
“We have an idea, so just wait until Singapore. It’s still September and then we’ll have a clear picture.
“It will become clear there what will happen.”