Popular Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo is poised for a dramatic one-off return to the Formula 1 spotlight this week, as part of a major season launch event orchestrated by Ford and Red Bull.
Ricciardo's Ambassador Role Paves the Way for Comeback
Since his departure from the Red Bull Racing family at the end of the 2024 season, Daniel Ricciardo has maintained a relatively low profile. The fan favourite chose to step back from the relentless F1 schedule, focusing on personal time. His most significant public move came in 2025 when he was announced as a global ambassador for Ford Racing, a role that capitalises on his immense popularity, particularly in the United States.
This partnership has taken on greater significance with Ford's technical alliance to supply engines to both the Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls F1 teams from the 2026 season onwards. It is this very collaboration that facilitates Ricciardo's upcoming appearance alongside his former colleagues.
Detroit Event to Unveil 2026 Liveries and Ford's Vision
The key moment will unfold on Thursday night in Detroit, Michigan, the historic home city of the Ford Motor Company. Red Bull and Racing Bulls will use this stage to be the first teams to reveal the liveries for their 2026 challengers.
Ford Racing has confirmed the event will be split into two distinct segments. The first part will focus on Ford Racing team and program announcements for 2026. A mystery 'surprise special guest' will host the evening, joined by Ford executives including CEO Jim Farley and global racing director Mark Rushbrook.
An array of racing drivers from various series will also be present. The lineup includes Bailey Campbell, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney, with a special appearance from Ford ambassador Daniel Ricciardo.
Red Bull's Pivotal 2026 Season and Engine Speculation
The second part of the evening, beginning in the early hours UK time, will see the 2026 car liveries finally unveiled. For Red Bull Racing, reigning champion Max Verstappen and his new teammate Isack Hadjar will join team principal Laurent Mekies. The sister Racing Bulls team will be represented by boss Alan Permane and drivers Liam Lawson and F1 rookie Arvid Lindblad.
The 2026 campaign marks a critical juncture for Red Bull, as it will be the debut season where both squads compete with power units designed and built entirely in-house by Red Bull Powertrains, with support from Ford Racing. This follows the departure of previous partner Honda to Aston Martin.
Despite recruiting numerous experienced engine designers from rivals, many have speculated that Red Bull could face a developmental deficit in their first year as a full engine manufacturer. However, intriguing paddock rumours suggest that Red Bull and Mercedes may have identified a regulatory loophole, potentially handing them an early advantage in the new era.
This high-profile launch in Detroit, starring the returning Daniel Ricciardo, sets the stage for what promises to be a revolutionary and highly competitive chapter in Formula 1 history.
