Former Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo has shared his excitement about attending the iconic Indianapolis 500 race in 2026. For the first time in many years, the Australian will experience a major motorsport event purely as a spectator, a prospect he describes as a deeply personal milestone.
Ricciardo revealed his plans during an appearance on the Speed Street podcast, hosted by IndyCar driver Conor Daly. He spoke about the anticipation building for the trip, noting it's a feeling he hasn't had since childhood. "I'm probably looking forward to going to a race just as a fan more than I have since I was a kid," Ricciardo stated. "To experience it all as it's been described... I think it's going to be a very strong moment for me. I'm happy to just be a fan."
The plan originated from discussions about involving Conor Daly more closely. Around the same time, Ricciardo was talking with his father about the Indy 500, a race his dad has always wanted to attend. "I said, 'Well then, let's do it in 2026, let's go to the race,'" Ricciardo explained, turning the idea into a concrete plan for the future.
Since stepping away from Formula 1 and concluding his professional racing career, Ricciardo has shifted his focus to other ventures. He has taken on the role of ambassador for Ford Racing and launched his own wine brand. This new brand is set to be featured during the Indy 500 weekend as part of a collaboration with Conor Daly, who drives for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing.
The Indianapolis 500, often called "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," is one of the most prestigious events in global motorsport. For Ricciardo, attending as a fan represents a return to the pure enjoyment of the sport, free from the pressures of competition. His comments highlight a desire to reconnect with the fundamental passion that drew him to racing in the first place.
This upcoming visit underscores Ricciardo's continued connection to the racing world, even after his active driving days. His partnership with Daly and the presence of his wine brand at the event show how former drivers can remain involved in the sport in new and creative ways. The 2026 Indy 500 is already shaping up to be a significant personal event for the popular former F1 star.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.