Daniel Ricciardo spent a few years as a Pink Bull driver in System 1 throughout two separate spells however misplaced his place on the grid in 2024 after failing to impress in his second likelihood with sister squad Racing Bulls
Daniel Ricciardo, a agency favorite amongst System 1 followers, is ready to make a one-off return. The Australian has largely saved a low profile since his departure from Pink Bull in the direction of the top of the 2024 season, opting to spend time with family members and revel in a break from the demanding motorsport schedule.
Ricciardo’s most notable public look since leaving F1 was final yr when he was unveiled as an envoy for Ford Racing. His international fan base, coupled along with his specific recognition within the USA, makes him a pretty determine for the automotive producer.
This relationship was additional cemented by Ford’s F1 engine partnership with each Pink Bull F1 groups. And it’s via that settlement that retired racer Ricciardo appears set to look on stage with former Pink Bull colleagues as soon as once more.
This Thursday evening in Detroit, Michigan, Pink Bull and Racing Bulls would be the first two groups to unveil their 2026 automotive liveries. The occasion, happening within the house metropolis of the Ford Motor Firm, will characteristic Ricciardo and one other yet-to-be-named “shock particular visitor”.
Ford Racing introduced: “The livestream might be cut up into two components. The primary might be centered on Ford Racing group and program bulletins for 2026. A shock particular visitor will act as our host for the night, joined by acquainted Ford faces on the stage together with CEO of Ford Motor Firm Jim Farley, international director of Ford Racing Mark Rushbrook and government chair of Ford Motor Firm, Invoice Ford.
“An thrilling lineup of drivers will even be a part of the stage together with Bailey Campbell, Joey Logano, Josh Berry, Chris Buescher, Logan Sargeant, Mike Rockenfeller, Sebastian Priaulx, Ryan Blaney with a particular look from Ford ambassador Daniel Ricciardo and Ford chief program engineer Arie Groeneveld.”
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The second a part of the night kicks off within the small hours UK time, when each new automotive liveries will lastly be unveiled. Max Verstappen and his recent team-mate Isack Hadjar will seem alongside Pink Bull Racing group principal Laurent Mekies to showcase their recent look, while sister outfit Racing Bulls could have boss Alan Permane available, joined by drivers Liam Lawson and F1 newcomer Arvid Lindblad.
There’s loads of hypothesis about what Pink Bull will convey to the desk in 2026, marking the debut season the place each squads will compete with engines designed and manufactured totally in-house. Earlier energy unit associate Honda has since partnered with Aston Martin, leaving Pink Bull Powertrains to forge forward with engine improvement supported by Ford Racing.
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On condition that it is Pink Bull’s maiden enterprise, many have speculated they may lag behind in 2026, regardless of having lured quite a few seasoned engine designers from opponents.
Nevertheless, paddock whispers point out that Pink Bull and Mercedes will be the solely groups to have found a loophole within the new rules, doubtlessly giving them an early benefit within the upcoming season.
