It's official, Daniel Ricciardo has departed the RB setup and will be replaced by Liam Lawson. The news, although expected, served a body blow to the Australian's legion of hardcore fans, but this by no means signals the end of his motor racing career.
Having been dropped from the grid once before, Ricciardo got a rare second chance in Formula 1 but ultimately was unable to use that chance to get himself back into the top seat at Red Bull that he so craved.
But could he carve out a successful career elsewhere? Let's take a look at the potential options.
Stay in Formula 1 in a reserve role
Being race-sharp, Ricciardo could still prove useful to the Red Bull setup as a reserve driver for at least the next season or two. Failing that, he could take his expertise elsewhere on the grid and hope another opportunity arises.
Plenty of teams on the grid could use his knowledge of the Red Bull cars, but ultimately it comes down to who has space available, and if anyone wants to employ him.
Race in America in either IndyCar or NASCAR
This is the favoured pick of this writer. It is known that Ricciardo loves America, so a move stateside seems a logical destination for the Aussie. The question is... IndyCar or NASCAR?
As a personal preference, I'd love to see him in IndyCar. His 'last of the late brakers' driving style is spectacular when utilised properly, and such a driving style would work very well in the competitive IndyCar Series.
However, I think he might favour a move to NASCAR if such a scenario plays out. His hero, and reason for picking #3 for his career, is Dale Earnhardt. It wouldn't surprise me one bit if Ricciardo ends up trying to emulate his hero.
Formula E or WEC?
I'm not sure either of these options would come to fruition. At the time of writing, only ERT has a vacant seat for the upcoming Formula E season and word is it will be going to Sacha Fenestraz.
As for WEC, definitely a possible avenue for Ricciardo if he fancies tackling Le Mans but to be honest I can't see him winding up there. I could be wrong though...
Return to Australia and compete in Supercars
This one would be cool, in my opinion. Ricciardo would no doubt be a popular addition to the grid in his home country where, supposing this happens, I reckon he would be a title contender straight away. I think the likelihood of him going to Supercars is low, but never say never.
From behind the wheel to behind the mic?
Ricciardo has a natural flair in front of the camera which would lend itself very well to TV punditry. Of course, I'd rather he keep racing, but I don't think the possibility of him retiring and becoming a TV personality should be discounted.
In much the same way as Alan Jones did before him on Australian TV, going from a Formula 1 driver to an expert pundit is a hugely respectable way to go and one I believe Ricciardo would settle well into.
Wherever Ricciardo ends up, I hope he finds a way to keep racing as I'm sure he still has a lot to offer motor racing. Where he ends up though is anyone's guess...
Image credit: Visa Cash App RB F1 Team; Arrow McLaren; Formula E; Channel 4
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