After leaving McLaren at the end of 2022, Ricciardo rejoined Red Bull last year in hopes of securing a seat alongside Max Verstappen in the main team. However, he struggled to regain the form that made him a top contender in F1 during the 2010s. Now at 35, with no prospects for a seat, he acknowledges that his time in the sport may be coming to an end. Nevertheless, since his departure from VCARB, he has not been short on offers.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has expressed interest in keeping Ricciardo within the organization as an ambassador. Additionally, Shane Howard, head of the Supercars series in Australia, indicated that Ricciardo would be welcomed back with enthusiasm.
Furthermore, Ricciardo is expected to receive an invitation to participate in the prestigious Race of Champions, set to take place next year at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. According to Fox News, organizers are eager to have him compete in this high-profile motorsport event, which features legends from various racing disciplines, including F1, IndyCar, Le Mans, World Rally, and Rally X. This event, making its debut in Australia, is scheduled for March 8, just a week before the Australian Grand Prix kicks off the 2025 F1 season.
Ricciardo participated in the 2015 Race of Champions at Wembley, and he would undoubtedly be a favorite among Australian fans. The event has previously featured racing legends such as Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel, Lando Norris, and Jenson Button.
“We are incredibly excited to bring the Race of Champions to Australia for the first time ever,” said Fredrik Johnsson, president and co-founder of the Race of Champions, during the announcement. “ROC has always been about pushing drivers to their limits in unique conditions.
“Australia has a rich motorsport heritage, and we’re looking forward to celebrating that by showcasing some of the best Australian drivers alongside some of the world’s most legendary racing stars in a spectacular showdown at Accor Stadium.”
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