Daniel Ricciardo, once one of Formula 1’s most sought-after talents, appears uninterested in a return to the grid under the banner of Cadillac’s highly anticipated 2026 Formula 1 project. Despite speculation linking the Honey Badger to the American manufacturer’s entry, sources close to Ricciardo suggest he has little desire to join the team or entertain a comeback with a new manufacturer.
Ricciardo’s F1 Exit: A Rocky Road
Ricciardo’s latest stint in Formula 1 ended tumultuously midway through the 2024 season, when Red Bull Racing replaced him mid-season. After parting ways with the Milton Keynes-based team, the Australian found himself without suitors among the current F1 grid. While rumors suggested that Cadillac—set to enter F1 in 2026—was keen on Ricciardo’s services, the driver reportedly dismissed the possibility outright.
Cadillac’s Bold F1 Ambitions
General Motors, under its Cadillac brand, will make its F1 debut in 2026 as part of the sport’s next-generation regulations. Initially partnered with Michael Andretti in the controversial Andretti-Cadillac bid, the American auto giant has since taken sole control of the project. The entity has officially rebranded from “Andretti Racing Ltd.” to “Cadillac Formula Racing Ltd.,” as confirmed by the UK’s Companies House on December 13.
Cadillac aims to establish itself as a formidable presence in the paddock. However, Ricciardo’s reported disinterest represents a setback to the team’s early efforts to attract top-tier talent. As of now, sources indicate that Ricciardo was never formally contacted by Cadillac, further suggesting that mutual interest may never have existed.
The Cadillac Driver Dilemma
With Ricciardo seemingly off the table, Cadillac may turn its attention to younger, hungrier talents. IndyCar stars, including potential fan-favorite Colton Herta, have frequently been linked to the project. Herta’s established relationship with American motorsport audiences could align well with Cadillac’s goals of building a U.S.-centric identity in F1.
The team faces a critical window to solidify its driver lineup as it seeks to attract sponsorships, fans, and credibility ahead of its debut.
Ricciardo’s Future: What’s Next?
Ricciardo’s reluctance to entertain a 2026 F1 return with Cadillac raises questions about his future in motorsport. While the 34-year-old has yet to announce his next career move, it appears increasingly unlikely that he will remain tethered to Formula 1. Instead, Ricciardo could explore opportunities in other categories, such as endurance racing, IndyCar, or even a leadership role within the sport.
The Australian driver’s fans, however, may hold out hope for one last chapter in F1, given Ricciardo’s enduring popularity and marketing appeal.
Cadillac’s Uphill Battle in Formula 1
Cadillac’s journey to the F1 grid comes with lofty ambitions but significant hurdles. The team’s late start and the absence of an experienced F1 driver like Ricciardo could complicate its efforts to establish competitiveness in its first season. Additionally, Cadillac will need to prove it can compete on equal footing with legacy manufacturers like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull.
By focusing on young drivers and building long-term infrastructure, Cadillac might emulate Haas or even Aston Martin, which have gradually worked their way into F1 contention.
The Verdict
Ricciardo’s apparent lack of interest in Cadillac underscores a broader trend in F1—where veteran drivers often prioritize established teams over new projects. While Cadillac’s project is ambitious and potentially groundbreaking, the team may need to rely on younger, ambitious drivers eager to prove themselves.
As Cadillac prepares for its 2026 debut, it faces the dual challenge of establishing credibility while navigating a competitive driver market. One thing is clear: Daniel Ricciardo won’t be part of that journey.
