Daniel Ricciardo Hints at NASCAR Move – ‘I’d Like to Drive at Daytona’

Formula One driver Daniel Ricciardo, currently driving for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB) in Formula One, has hinted at a potential move to NASCAR in the future. In a recent interview with Tourism Western Australia, Ricciardo shared his ambitions after Formula One and expressed his desire to explore opportunities in other motorsport leagues, including NASCAR.

“There are things I would like to try and experience, I don’t know, let’s say on a competitive level,” Ricciardo explained. “That’s, you know, I grew up a NASCAR fan, I would like to drive a NASCAR (car). I would like to drive Daytona (International Speedway), for example,” Ricciardo revealed.

The idea of ​​a former Formula One driver making the jump to NASCAR is not unprecedented. Racing legends like Juan Pablo Montoya, Kamui Kobayashi, Kimi Raikkonen and Jacques Villeneuve have all done the same. And given the Australian’s love of the United States, his interest in NASCAR will come as no surprise.

Ricciardo is also reportedly aware of PROJECT91, an initiative led by Trackhouse Racing co-owner Justin Marks and Grammy-winning artist Pitbull that aims to bring international racing stars to NASCAR. Initially open to Kimi Raikkonen, PROJECT91 has a venue that could very well appeal to Ricciardo.

Marks noted that Ricciardo is aware of the project, suggesting potential interest from the team. However, in 2022, Ricciardo was primarily focused on securing his Formula 1 future, despite those promising opportunities in NASCAR.

While some might expect Ricciardo to jump at the opportunity, he remains focused on his place at Red Bull Formula 1,

In an interview with Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal, Ricciardo said:

“Would I want to compete? Yes and no. But I also know it’s not what I grew up doing and I’d probably get burned, so I don’t know if I need it, but I’d like to experience it,” he admitted.

Ricciardo’s Formula 1 future remains somewhat uncertain as he remains 10 points behind teammate Yuki Tsunoda. He has yet to sign a contract for 2025, and competition is fierce, with long-time Red Bull Racing reserve driver Liam Lawson vying for a seat at sister team Red Bull.

VCARB is expected to confirm its second driver alongside Yuki Tsunoda after the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix. Speaking to ViaPlay, the Red Bull consultant said the following via Crash.net.

“We have an idea, so let’s wait until Singapore. It’s still September and then we’ll have a clear picture.

“There it will become clear what will happen.”