Rumors are swirling that Daniel Ricciardo, the Australian racing driver, could be offered a $10 million deal by Toyota to come back to racing.
The deal would reportedly bring Ricciardo into the fold of Toyota Gazoo Racing, either in Australia’s Supercar Series or NASCAR in the United States.
While Ricciardo himself has yet to confirm or deny the speculation, the rumors have ignited excitement in the motorsport community, sparking discussions about the ambitious plans of Chairman Akio Toyoda.
So, what do we know so far?
The $10 million deal
Toyota has yet to comment on the $10 million deal in any detail, but most find it believable and for good reason. Ricciardo is known for his infectious smile, bold overtakes, and magnetic personality. He was a staple in Formula One and a fan favorite for over ten years.
A deal of this magnitude is no small feat and is typically associated with high-stakes arenas like cryptocurrency platforms, auction houses, or online casino websites such as those listed on Casino Meter.
Most have taken the deal’s significant size as a sign that Toyota is truly willing and ready to heavily invest and rebuild Ricciardo’s career in the racing world.
For those who don’t know how consistently good he has been, let’s do a recap.
Daniel Ricciardo: A career recap
Ricciardo’s journey in the sport began with karting, where his natural talent showed early and propelled him through to the ranks of open-wheel racing. After sharpening his skills in Formula Renault and Formula Three, he made his Formula One debut with HRT.
His early years saw him spend some time at the back of the grid, but it wasn’t long before his talent caught the attention of larger teams.
In 2012, he joined Toro Rosso and showcased his potential, consistently outperforming his machinery. The defining moment of Ricciardo’s career came when he earned a coveted spot at Red Bull Racing. It was here that he truly came into his own.
That year, he claimed three Grand Prix victories, including a sensational victory at the 2014 Canadian Grand Prix, which showcased his exceptional driving skills and established him as a force to be reckoned with in Formula One.
Over the next few years, Ricciardo would clinch eight Formula One victories and 32 podium finishes in a career spanning more than 250 races. Superfans can immediately recall his daring but calculated overtakes and unflappable demeanor that propelled him to the forefront in a sport marked by rivalries and high stakes.
His career hit the skids after he left Red Bull in 2018 for Renault and, later, McLaren. His 2021 victory at Monza, McLaren’s first in nearly ten years, was a high point, but inconsistency and poor car performance plagued him until his departure from the team in 2022.
In September 2024, Ricciardo was fired by the VCARB team after he failed to put enough pressure on the Red Bull Sergio Perez. He was switched for 22-year-old Liam Lawson of New Zealand.
Toyota’s big move
If the rumors pan out, Toyota’s interest in Ricciardo represents a bold move by the Japanese automaker. Toyota Gazoo Racing, the company’s motorsport division, has been making waves in recent years with its involvement in the World Rally Championship, FIA Endurance Championship, and Le Mans.
Now, it seems Toyota is setting its sights on a bigger goal, with Ricciardo at the center of its plans.
According to a source from Toyota, Akio Toyoda sees Ricciardo as more than just a skilled driver. “Toyoda-san can see his value, not just as a driver, but as someone who can drag in the fans in huge numbers because of his natural charisma,” the source revealed.
The rumored $10 million contract reportedly includes flexibility for Ricciardo to compete in multiple series, which would align with Toyota’s goal of expanding its global presence and leveraging Ricciardo’s star power to attract new fans and sponsors.
What can Ricciardo look forward to?
If Ricciardo and Toyota are able to come to an agreement, the deal could mark an exciting new beginning chapter in his career. Competing in the supercars series would allow him to reconnect with Australian motorsport fans, while a stint in NASCAR would introduce him to the passionate fanbase of America’s premier stock car series.
Both options come with unique challenges. Supercars is a highly competitive championship that requires precise handling and tactical racecraft, while NASCAR demands adaptability and endurance on oval tracks.
However, Ricciardo has a reputation for versatility that suggests he would excel in either circuit.
Another tantalizing possibility is a return to Formula One in 2026, with Cadillac’s new team reportedly eyeing Ricciardo as a seasoned driver to help develop their program.
Even as Ricciardo navigates these potential opportunities, his contributions to Formula One have not gone unnoticed. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s advisor, recently praised Ricciardo’s impact on the sport.
Beyond his on-track achievements, Ricciardo’s charisma and relatability have made him a marketing dream. His appearance on Netflix’s Drive to Survive introduced him to a global audience, showcasing his humor, authenticity, and competitive spirit.