Daniel Ricciardo Bids Farewell to F1 with Class Amid Speculation of Retirement
If Daniel Ricciardo has indeed completed his final Formula 1 race in Singapore, he will be remembered for leaving the sport with dignity and grace, even as criticism and challenges surrounded him.
Reports indicate that the Australian veteran will be sidelined following the Singapore Grand Prix to make way for rising Red Bull star Liam Lawson. Ricciardo has been striving to prove himself within Red Bull’s second team, hoping to secure a return to the main team for a fitting farewell.
His ambitions flickered as Sergio Perez’s season deteriorated, yet Ricciardo struggled to deliver the results necessary to climb back up the ranks in the RB car. Throughout the season, he faced scrutiny regarding his age and performance, with some questioning whether he deserved a place on the grid over younger drivers like Lawson.
Quite the reception for Danny Ric back at RB 🤜🤛#F1 #SingaporeGP pic.twitter.com/yn39km1ba2
— Formula 1 (@F1) September 22, 2024
Former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve was particularly vocal, challenging Ricciardo’s place in the sport and belittling his past achievements with Red Bull. The criticism peaked after Ricciardo was outperformed by teammate Yuki Tsunoda in qualifying at the Japanese Grand Prix, leaving him visibly emotional as the reality set in that he may have raced for the last time.
Despite the challenges, Ricciardo revealed that Red Bull superstar Max Verstappen reached out to offer support following the difficult Japan race. “He was one of the only guys who sent me a text,” Ricciardo said. Verstappen encouraged him to stay positive, acknowledging Ricciardo’s talent despite the noise of criticism.
Daniel: "After Japan this year, Max was one of the only guys to send me a text of 'keep your head up, we know what you're capable of, don't listen to the noise'. I respect and appreciate him a lot." 🥲❤️pic.twitter.com/kFG0tqKYNw
— Verstappen News (@verstappenews) September 22, 2024
Ricciardo received a heartfelt guard of honour from Red Bull upon his return to the team following the Singapore GP, a touching tribute that highlighted the respect he garnered from his peers. The emotional reception included raucous applause and warm embraces, emphasizing the appreciation for the 35-year-old driver.
While F1 fans celebrated this moment of sportsmanship, many felt that Ricciardo deserved a better send-off. Comments flooded in expressing disappointment over his potential departure. “It’s sad to see him go; I hope another team gives him a chance,” said one fan, while another lamented, “Daniel deserves a way better goodbye. Let him finish the season.”
Ricciardo took a moment to reflect in his car after the grueling 62-lap race, allowing himself to soak in what may be his last moments as an F1 driver. His team maintained radio silence on the final lap, a mark of respect as Ricciardo absorbed the weight of the occasion.
“A lot of emotions,” Ricciardo explained. “I’m aware it could be it. I just wanted to savour the moment.” As he contemplates his future, fans and colleagues alike will remember Daniel Ricciardo not just for his racing talent but for the character he brought to the sport.
