Formula 1 has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with drivers constantly facing the pressure of performance. One such driver, Daniel Ricciardo, has found himself at a crossroads in his career. The Australian racer's time in F1 appears to be drawing to a close following several challenging seasons. However, former Red Bull driver David Coulthard believes Ricciardo could find a new role within the sport as a media personality. This suggestion comes amidst significant changes in the racing world, where popularity and visibility are increasingly important. Coulthard highlights Ricciardo's unique position as both a celebrity and a seasoned competitor, suggesting that transitioning into punditry could be a strategic move.

Over the past few years, Ricciardo has faced setbacks that have impacted his career trajectory. After being let go by McLaren in 2022, he joined RB, Red Bull's sister team, but was ultimately replaced by Liam Lawson before the end of last season. Lawson has since moved up to become Max Verstappen’s teammate for the 2025 season. At 35, Ricciardo is now contemplating his next steps in motorsport. Despite these challenges, Coulthard points out that Ricciardo's presence and charisma make him an asset to F1, even if not behind the wheel.

Coulthard emphasized that while Ricciardo's racing abilities may no longer align with top-tier competition, his celebrity status within the sport remains intact. "He has been part of F1 during a period of unprecedented growth and popularity," Coulthard explained. "This means he's more than just a driver; he's a figure who has captured public attention." The former champion suggests that Ricciardo should leverage this visibility by working in the media space, where he can continue to engage with fans and contribute valuable insights about the sport.

Ricciardo's departure from F1 after the Singapore Grand Prix last year is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming season of Netflix's popular series "Drive to Survive," set to release on March 7. Meanwhile, Red Bull has confirmed Yuki Tsunoda and F2 runner-up Isack Hadjar as their drivers for the new season. As the 2025 F1 season approaches, starting in Ricciardo's home country of Australia on March 16, the future of this beloved driver remains uncertain. Yet, Coulthard's advice offers a potential path forward, one that could see Ricciardo remain a prominent figure in the world of motorsport.

As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the role of media personalities becomes ever more crucial. Ricciardo's transition into this space could provide fans with fresh perspectives and maintain his relevance in the sport. While the racing world moves on, his contributions off the track might prove equally impactful, ensuring his legacy extends beyond his competitive career.