(Motorsport-Total.com) – Former Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo has given a deep insight into the emotional ups and downs of the premier class, making it clear that there are “many days that really hurt” in the Grand Prix circus.
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The long-time Red Bull driver ended his career after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, when he had to leave Racing Bulls prematurely. In 14 seasons, the Australian secured a total of eight Grand Prix wins and 32 podiums in over 250 starts.
“I always hesitate a bit to talk about disappointments, low points, or tough days because people see a lot of the good – and yes, you also get a lot back,” Ricciardo explained in a conversation with Ford CEO Jim Farley.
“What goes up must also come down”
“I don’t want to dismiss it. But what goes up must also come down. And there are many days that hurt. There are many days when you are frustrated and so much is out of your control.”
Ricciardo, known for his self-reflection, adds: “I take responsibility whenever I can, but there are days that just hurt and are shitty. I was one of the lucky ones. I was able to win races in Formula 1. I celebrated eight wins but started over 250 times. I don’t know what percentage that is in the end, but it’s a pretty low success rate.”
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The Australian adds: “So the really good days are rare, but there is something about it that keeps bringing you back. And I think it makes the highlights even more intense because you don’t win every day.”
The feeling of a victory: “Like a superpower”
While openly talking about the setbacks, Ricciardo also highlighted the high of a Grand Prix win – the moment when you are the best in the world.
“I’m not going to lie: It feels powerful. It’s a strange thing. It’s a strange power you have there,” Ricciardo continued. “In that special moment, it’s like a superpower. Like you said: On that day, you were the best in the whole world at a very specific thing. And that’s huge.”
“You are filled with this rush, this pride, and this kind of almighty strength. But at the same time, it’s like this: As high as the high is, it also grounds you extremely.” After his departure from the Formula 1 cockpit, Daniel Ricciardo is now working as a global ambassador for Ford Racing.
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