Daniel Ricciardo's career in Formula 1 has likely reached its epilogue, but Helmut Marko says Red Bull remains interested in keeping the popular Australian involved with its activities in some capacity.
Red Bull announced on Thursday that Liam Lawson would replace Ricciardo at RB from next month’s US Grand Prix and for the remainder of the 2024 season.
While the news has saddened the Aussie’s fans, it was predictable outcome for the 35-year-old F1 veteran who has struggled all year to put points on the board and justify his position with the team for 2025.
Although Ricciardo has reached the end of his racing tenure with Red Bull, Marko believes there could be value in maintaining a collaboration with the eight-time Grand Prix winner, perhaps withing the realm of Red Bull’s public relation activities.
"We have had a conversation and it is clear that we are interested," Marko told German website Motorsport-Total. "He is one of the most popular Formula 1 drivers, especially in the United States.
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"But he wants time to consider his entire future. I don't think he will enter any other racing category. And on the other hand, if he is no longer actively racing, will he still want these PR activities at all?
"Ricciardo also has a lot of money in the bank and I would say it is a life decision for him to decide how he wants to shape his future life."
©RedBull
Following his swansong outing last weekend in Singapore, Ricciardo said that he would take the time to consider both his motorsport future and his life away from the track.
He also ruled out a return to a reserve role with Red Bull, or with any other team for that matter.
"Obviously last year it made a lot of sense to keep one foot in the door and the big picture was to try and get back at Red Bull,” Ricciardo said.
"I think if I was to do that again... I'm not going to restart my career. I'm also 35 and I still showed the pace that I've had over the years, but it's obviously been evident that it's been harder for me to show it every weekend.
"It definitely came easier for me when I was 25 as opposed to 35, but also maybe the competition is just increasing.”
As Ricciardo contemplates his future, it remains to be seen whether he will take up an ambassadorial role or other non-driving positions with Red Bull.
For now, the door remains open for continued collaboration, but the final decision lies in the hands of the ever-popular Australian.
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