Formula 1’s Daniel Ricciardo, currently racing for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB), has opened up about a potential shift to NASCAR down the line. In a recent chat with Tourism Western Australia, he shared his aspirations beyond F1 and expressed excitement about exploring other racing opportunities, specifically NASCAR.
“I’ve always been interested in trying different things, especially competitively,” Ricciardo said. “I grew up a fan of NASCAR, and driving around Daytona would be a dream.”
It’s not uncommon for F1 drivers to cross over into NASCAR, with icons like Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen doing just that. Given Ricciardo’s fondness for the United States, his interest in NASCAR isn’t shocking.
He’s also been keeping an eye on PROJECT91, a program by Trackhouse Racing co-owner Justin Marks and Grammy-winner Pitbull, designed to bring international racers into NASCAR. Initially aimed at drivers like Raikkonen, it could be an appealing opportunity for Ricciardo.
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Marks has pointed out that Ricciardo is aware of the project, suggesting there might be mutual interest. However, Ricciardo’s primary focus in 2022 was to secure his place in F1, despite the enticing NASCAR prospects.
Though some might expect him to jump at a NASCAR chance, he remains committed to landing a seat with Red Bull.
In a conversation with Sports Business Journal’s Adam Stern, Ricciardo remarked, “Would I like to compete? Yes and no. It’s not what I grew up doing, and I’d probably struggle, but I’d love to experience it.”
The future looks uncertain for Ricciardo in F1, as he’s currently trailing teammate Yuki Tsunoda by 10 points and hasn’t locked in a contract for 2025. With Liam Lawson also vying for a place in Red Bull’s sister team, competition remains fierce.
VCARB is expected to confirm its second driver alongside Tsunoda after the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. Red Bull consultant commented, via Crash.net, “We have an idea—stay tuned until Singapore. It’s still September, and things will become clearer soon.”