Ricciardo backed for new venture after F1 exit

Marc Priestley has claimed "media dream" Daniel Ricciardo will make a "great pundit" in F1 after his driving career came to sudden stop last season.

The Australian was let go by RB after the Singapore Grand Prix in order to make way for Liam Lawson. Whilst the New Zealander has since been elevated to race alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull, Ricciardo has made it clear he does not anticipate a return to racing in F1.

However, that does not mean he will not seek out other opportunities within the paddock, something advocated by Priestley, who has himself transitioned into punditry work.

The 48-year-old was a mechanic at McLaren between 2000 and 2009 and believes Ricciardo would excel in a camera-facing role.

"[Daniel] Ricciardo would be a great pundit, he's a media dream," the Briton told Casino Uden Rofus. "But I don't know what he'll do next.

"Some drivers decide they want to get out of the car and spend time with their family and friends. After six months or a year, they decide they want to come back into the sport in some way."

Ricciardo has been making the most of his down time, sharing posts of his travels on social media, as well as spending time back at home in Australia.

A number of series are keen to sign the 35-year-old up to race, but whether he does get back in the cockpit remains to be seen.

Nonetheless, Priestley maintains the eight-time grand prix winner will "pick whatever suits him" for his next move.

"It comes down to Ricciardo's decision, but I have no doubt he'll pick whatever suits him because for once, Ricciardo has the freedom to do whatever he wants to do," he added.

"After being in a controlled environment for so long, it must be a nice feeling for him."