Daniel Ricciardo, former Formula 1 driver, has revealed his genuine feelings about his previous team-mate Max Verstappen, reflecting on their time together at Red Bull from 2016 to 2018. Despite their shared history, Ricciardo holds no bitterness as Verstappen rose to become one of the sport’s most successful figures.
After Ricciardo made a surprising move to Renault in 2019, his career trajectory faltered, contrasting sharply with Verstappen’s meteoric success. Ricciardo later joined Racing Bulls in 2023 but was released last September, effectively ending his time in F1. Nonetheless, he expresses pride rather than resentment regarding Verstappen’s achievements, highlighting the admiration he feels for the Dutchman’s multiple world championships.
Speaking at Ray White’s Connect Conference, Ricciardo said:
“I’ve seen Max become world champion four times, four times! You could almost lose count. It’s so many now. I feel proud, which is great, because he was a team-mate of mine.”
“He’s someone I shared a lot of track time with, and he achieved that.”
—Daniel Ricciardo, Former F1 Driver
Recalling a Career Highlight: Victory at Monaco
Ricciardo reflected on his own memorable moments in Formula 1, looking back at highlights such as his celebrated win in Monaco with fondness and amazement. These achievements remain a source of pride amid his career’s ups and downs.
He expressed,
“Sometimes I think about things like winning in Monaco, and I think, ‘Did that really happen?’”
“I’ve always loved racing, but I never imagined I’d have the career I’ve had, or that I’d make it to F1.”
—Daniel Ricciardo, Former F1 Driver
Facing the Future Beyond Racing
Since departing Formula 1, Ricciardo has come to terms with the end of his racing career while exploring new ventures. Speculation about his next move included potential involvement with 2026 debutants Cadillac, but he has since focused more on life outside motorsport.
He is now dedicating much of his energy to promoting his apparel brand, Enchante, and embracing personal experiences such as travel and lifestyle changes away from the sport’s intense environment.
The Broader Context of Ricciardo and Verstappen’s Journeys
Daniel Ricciardo’s story illustrates the contrasting paths of two drivers who once shared a garage at Red Bull. While Verstappen has grown into a dominant force in Formula 1, securing four world titles, Ricciardo’s journey included challenges and eventual retirement from the circuit.
Ricciardo’s calm and reflective perspective, combined with his continued respect for Verstappen, offers fans insight into the dynamics between former teammates and the realities of racing careers.
As Verstappen continues to build on his legacy, Ricciardo’s narrative reminds followers of the sport about the highs and lows inherent in professional racing and the possibilities that life after Formula 1 can offer.