Daniel Ricciardo open to racing return with unusual 'itch'

Daniel Ricciardo has confessed to having an "itch" for Baja racing, whilst Ford's global motorsport chief has left the door open for a competitive return in off-road events.

The 36-year-old has maintained a relatively low profile since his abrupt F1 exit in September 2024, when Racing Bulls terminated his contract mid-season.

However, his recent ambassador role with Ford has reignited speculation about a return to competitive motorsport.

"The itch for Baja is there, but I've got a lot to learn," Ricciardo admitted during a Ford Q&A session at the recent Raptor Rally event in Arizona. "A few more of these events, and then ask me next year, and we'll see where I'm at!"

The eight-time grand prix winner signed his Ford ambassadorship deal 12 months after his F1 career ended, with the arrangement centred around the American manufacturer's Raptor pickup models and their off-road motorsport activities.

Ricciardo's association with Ford stems from its relationship with Red Bull, which will see Ford officially return to F1 as the Milton Keynes-based squad's technical partner, as the six-time constructors' champion embarks on a new era as a power unit manufacturer.

The Australian was serving as Red Bull's third driver when that collaboration was announced, and subsequently drove a Gen2 Mustang Supercar at Ford's headquarters in Michigan as part of the promotional activities.

No immediate competition plans

Whilst at the Arizona event, Ricciardo sampled a Raptor T1+ prototype, the same specification used in premier off-road events such as the Dakar Rally.

Ford's off-road involvement extends to Mexico's Baja 1000 and Australia's Finke Desert Race, events that could potentially suit Ricciardo's skill set.

Global Ford Racing boss Mark Rushbrook has revealed that, whilst there are currently no firm competition plans, the manufacturer is keeping options open regarding Ricciardo's future involvement.

"Honestly, right now, he has so much passion for off-road and for Ford Raptors," Rushbrook told the KTM Summer Grill. "He bought a Ford Raptor long before we ever had a relationship with him that he's kept in Los Angeles."

Rushbrook explained that Ricciardo's enthusiasm for the brand preceded any formal relationship, dating back to his personal purchase of a Raptor whilst still competing in Formula 1.

"When we first met him, and he first came to Dearborn when we announced a relationship in 2023, he just wanted to drive Raptors," he continued.

"And then when he was out of the seat in Formula 1, and we talked about, well, what is your passion? We knew it was Raptors, and it was a match that he wanted to do more there with us."

The manufacturer has utilised Ricciardo extensively in promotional activities, including appearances at F1 Las Vegas and various off-road events. His genuine enthusiasm for the platform has impressed Ford's senior management.

"So we had him at Raptor Rally a couple months ago, we've had him doing a lot of other off-road stuff around F1 Las Vegas, and he's enjoying that so much," Rushbrook explained. "We're enjoying that time with him, and the benefit that we get from that."

Whilst declining to commit to specific competition plans, Rushbrook acknowledged the possibility remains open for future developments.

"I guess, TBD, what we'll see in the future. At this point, I can say there is no plan for competition, but you never know what the future holds."