Daniel Ricciardo turned heads at the Australian Grand Prix—not by racing, but simply by showing up. For the first time since parting ways with the Red Bull family after the Singapore Grand Prix last year, the fan-favorite Australian was spotted back in the Formula 1 paddock.
A Brief but Noteworthy Visit
According to Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko, Ricciardo’s return was “brief,” but his presence was enough to spark speculation. In a sport where little goes unnoticed, his appearance in Melbourne—on home soil—didn’t fly under the radar.
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There was no official role or comeback announcement, but Ricciardo’s visibility reignited conversations about his place in the sport. Even without a car under him, his presence alone reminded everyone of the charisma and connection he brings to F1.
Daniel Ricciardo remains one of the sport’s most beloved figures. Since his departure from Racing Bulls in 2024, his future in Formula 1 has been uncertain, but far from forgotten.
His surprise appearance in Melbourne may have been casual, but in F1, even the smallest moves can signal something bigger. Whether it leads anywhere remains to be seen—but for fans, seeing Ricciardo back in the paddock was a welcome moment.
Do you think we’ve seen Daniel Ricciardo behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car for the last time, or is there still one more comeback left in the Aussie?
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