Daniel Ricciardo

Daniel Joseph Ricciardo{{cite news|url=http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/251542/|title=Interview with Toro Rosso's Daniel Ricciardo|date=1 February 2011|work=GPUpdate.net|publisher=GPUpdate|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324042049/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/251542/|archive-date=24 March 2014|access-date=17 April 2018}} was born on 1 July 1989 in Perth, Western Australia, to Italian-Australian parents.{{cite news|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-07-01/ferrari-fan-ricciardo-says-a-move-is-unlikely/6586040|title=Daniel Ricciardo says move to Ferrari from Red Bull not very likely|website=abc.net.au|date=1 July 2015|access-date=31 July 2020|archive-date=12 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210812190330/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-07-01/ferrari-fan-ricciardo-says-a-move-is-unlikely/6586040|url-status=live}} His father, Giuseppe "Joe" Ricciardo, was born in Ficarra (Messina), but relocated to Australia with his family at age seven.{{cite news |title=Five things about Daniel Ricciardo |date=14 May 2020 |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/five-things-about-daniel-ricciardo-120051400943_1.html |publisher=Business Standard Private Limited, New Delhi |accessdate=12 September 2021 |archive-date=12 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210912140549/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/five-things-about-daniel-ricciardo-120051400943_1.html |url-status=live }} Ricciardo's mother, Grace Pulitanò was born in Australia, but had parents originally from Casignana (Calabria).{{cite news|title=Daniel Ricciardo awarded the Trofeo Lorenzo Bandini for his speed, success and attitude in Formula 1|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/motor-sport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-awarded-the-trofeo-lorenzo-bandini-for-his-speed-success-and-attitude-in-formula-1/story-e6frf3zl-1227044733111|access-date=16 April 2022|work=FOX SPORTS|date=2 September 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140902182052/http://www.foxsports.com.au/motor-sport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-awarded-the-trofeo-lorenzo-bandini-for-his-speed-success-and-attitude-in-formula-1/story-e6frf3zl-1227044733111|archive-date=2 September 2014}}{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/trailblazing-dreamer-ricciardo-only-scratching-surface-30355200.html|title=Trailblazing dreamer Ricciardo only scratching surface|work=independent.ie|access-date=27 March 2017|archive-date=21 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221233948/http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/trailblazing-dreamer-ricciardo-only-scratching-surface-30355200.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://archiviostorico.gazzetta.it/2010/novembre/18/ragazzino_Ricciardo_straccia_Vettel_ga_10_101118047.shtml?refresh_ce-cp |title=Il ragazzino Ricciardo straccia Vettel |publisher=Gazzetta dello Sport |access-date=21 January 2016 |archive-date=26 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126212515/http://archiviostorico.gazzetta.it/2010/novembre/18/ragazzino_Ricciardo_straccia_Vettel_ga_10_101118047.shtml?refresh_ce-cp |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.ecodellalocride.it/news/editoriale-f-1-daniel-ricciardo-un-toro-rosso-calabrese-davanti-alle-ferrari/|title=Editoriale: F.1: Daniel Ricciardo: un "toro rosso d'origine calabrese" davanti alle Ferrari|publisher=Eco della Locride|access-date=15 May 2021|archive-date=16 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516180506/https://www.ecodellalocride.it/news/editoriale-f-1-daniel-ricciardo-un-toro-rosso-calabrese-davanti-alle-ferrari/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo also has a sister; Michelle.{{Cite news|url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/motorsport/how-mum-and-dad-tried-to-steer-ricciardo-away-from-racing-ng-ya-161196|title=How mum and dad tried to steer Ricciardo away from racing|date=9 July 2011|work=The West Australian|access-date=27 April 2017|archive-date=28 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170428142441/https://thewest.com.au/sport/motorsport/how-mum-and-dad-tried-to-steer-ricciardo-away-from-racing-ng-ya-161196|url-status=live}} Growing up in Duncraig, Ricciardo's earliest memories of motorsports were of his father racing at the nearby Barbagallo Raceway in Wanneroo.{{cite news|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/motorsport/the-perth-kid-with-a-formula-for-success/news-story/a6adc9106f91b90221dafe3efc9e81d0?nk=82b51f9f8d0169e670380c4af0246999-1482305697|title=The Perth kid with a formula for success|date=14 March 2012|work=theaustralian.com.au|access-date=21 December 2016|archive-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327124704/https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/motorsport/the-perth-kid-with-a-formula-for-success/news-story/a6adc9106f91b90221dafe3efc9e81d0?nk=82b51f9f8d0169e670380c4af0246999-1482305697|url-status=live}} Raised Catholic, he attended high school at Newman College.{{cite news|date=1 June 2018|title=Ricciardo driven to succeed|url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/formula-one-racer-daniel-ricciardo-driven-to-succeed-ng-b88851685z|access-date=8 July 2020|website=The West Australian|language=en|archive-date=9 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200709084633/https://thewest.com.au/sport/formula-one-racer-daniel-ricciardo-driven-to-succeed-ng-b88851685z|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |title=Daniel Ricciardo on the power of the mind |url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-f1-driver-diary-brazil-2017-red-bull |access-date=6 November 2022 |website=Red Bull |language=en |archive-date=6 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221106043741/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-f1-driver-diary-brazil-2017-red-bull |url-status=live }} He started karting at the age of 9.{{Cite web|title=27 to 1: the definitive Daniel Ricciardo|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-27-fast-facts-27th-birthday-red-bull|access-date=7 November 2021|website=Red Bull|language=en|archive-date=7 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107111214/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-27-fast-facts-27th-birthday-red-bull|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel Ricciardo.JPG

Ricciardo started karting at the age of nine as a member of the Tiger Kart Club (TKC) and entered numerous karting events.

In 2005, he entered the Western Australian Formula Ford championship driving a 15-year-old Van Diemen, finishing eighth by season's end.{{cite web|url=http://www.formulaford1600.com.au/ARCHIVES/State/wa/2005wa.htm |title=2005 Western Australian Formula Ford Championship Final Pointscore |work=formulaford1600.com.au |publisher=Australian Formula Ford State Racing |access-date=30 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091013174647/http://www.formulaford1600.com.au/ARCHIVES/State/wa/2005wa.htm |archive-date=13 October 2009 }}

Towards the end of the 2005 season, Ricciardo took a leased 13-year-old Van Diemen across to Sandown Raceway in Melbourne to compete at the national Formula Ford series, but his aging car was uncompetitive, and he finished 16th, 17th and retired during the weekend's three races.{{cite web |url=http://www.natsoft.com.au/cgi-bin/results.cgi?11/09/2005.SAN.Q1 |title=Betta Electrical Sandown 500 – Rd 9 2005 V8 Supercar Series Sandown International Motor Raceway 2005 Australian Formula Ford Championship Qualifying |work=National Software |publisher=AVESCO; Melbourne University Car Club Inc. |date=10 September 2005 |access-date=30 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318214256/http://www.natsoft.com.au/cgi-bin/results.cgi?11%2F09%2F2005.SAN.Q1 |archive-date=18 March 2012}}

That year, Ricciardo was more successful in karts, in which he was crowned the Australian champion. His prizes for the win included a pass to the 2006 Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park, Melbourne, where the then-16-year-old savoured a taste of his own future by chatting unnoticed with Italian driver Jarno Trulli and Miss Universe 2004, Jennifer Hawkins.{{cite news |last1=Turnbull |first1=Tiffanie |title=Daniel Ricciardo: How shy Aussie kid became F1 golden boy |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx25xjkpr8jo |access-date=4 October 2024 |work=BBC News |date=4 October 2024}}

After finishing sixth in 2007 Formula Renault 2.0 Italia, Ricciardo was selected by Red Bull Junior Team.{{Cite news |date=6 November 2009 |title=F3: Daniel Ricciardo, new Red Bull rising star |url=https://www.auto123.com/en/news/f3-daniel-ricciardo-new-red-bull-rising-star/51781/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221220041310/https://www.auto123.com/en/news/f3-daniel-ricciardo-new-red-bull-rising-star/51781/ |archive-date=20 December 2022 |access-date=19 December 2022 |publisher=Auto123.com}}

During the mid-part of the 2008 season, Ricciardo made his Formula Three debut at the Nürburgring, joining SG Formula's Formula 3 Euro Series team. Despite only a short amount of experience in the car, Ricciardo qualified in eighth for the first race, which later converted into sixth in the race after James Jakes and Christian Vietoris stalled on the grid. But he struggled in the reverse-grid race, finishing just fifteenth.{{cite magazine |last= English |first= Steven |date=July 2008 |title= Hülkenberg is 'Ring Leader |magazine= Autosport |volume= 193 |issue=5 |pages= 58–59}}

Ricciardo moved to the British Formula 3 Championship for the 2009 season driving for Carlin Motorsport.{{cite news|url=http://www.crash.net/f3/News/32333/1/carlin_confirms_red_bull_duo.html|title=Carlin confirms Red Bull duo|publisher=crash.net|date=2 January 2009|access-date=3 February 2009|archive-date=10 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120910190039/http://www.crash.net/f3/news/32333/1/carlin_confirms_red_bull_duo.html|url-status=dead}} Ricciardo continued his partnership with Carlin by heading to the Macau Grand Prix with the team.{{cite news|url=http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,26130225-5005401,00.html|title=West Australian Daniel Ricciardo expected to make major moves pre-Christmas|publisher=news.com.au|date=26 September 2009|access-date=9 October 2009|first=Colin|last=Young|archive-date=29 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090929153015/http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,26130225-5005401,00.html|url-status=dead

}}

On 30 October 2009, Ricciardo was signed by Tech 1 to compete in the 2010 season.{{cite news | last = O'Leary | first = Jamie | date = 30 October 2009 | access-date = 9 November 2009 | title = Ricciardo joins Hartley at Tech 1 | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79847 | archive-date = 3 August 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170803172232/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79847 | url-status = live }} He had competed with the team at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal in 2009 and was the teammate to Brendon Hartley, another driver who drove for Tech 1 over the season.

File:2011 WSR Paul Ricard - Daniel Ricciardo.jpg]]

Following a minor incident during a mountain bike exercise, Ricciardo was forced to miss the second test of the 2010 season but went on to take pole position for both races at the season-opening round of the 2010 season in Alcañiz, Spain. He finished third and second in the races respectively, to leave himself at the head of the championship standings. Two weeks later, at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, Ricciardo was relegated to last on the grid after being deemed to have hindered the laps of other drivers. In the next two races, he finished 13th and fifth respectively – coming 2nd in the latter, until many of the front-runners were given penalties for infringing the parc ferme rules before the race. One week later, in Monte Carlo, Ricciardo secured his third pole position of the season, finishing three-tenths of a second ahead of championship rival Stefano Coletti. He secured his first win at the following race, one place ahead of Coletti. Ricciardo went on to secure two more wins at the Hungaroring and at the Hockenheimring in commanding fashion. Following Ricciardo's sixth pole from 12 races, Tech 1 team boss, Simon Abadie, praised his driver's efforts greatly, saying, "I am happy, and happy for Daniel because six poles in 12 races is good going," and later stated his team's ambitions for success, by telling Autosport correspondent Peter Mills, "I really hopes Daniel wins the championship."{{cite news | last = Mills | first = Peter | date = 4 September 2010 | access-date = 4 September 2010 | title = Tech 1 thrilled with Ricciardo's pole | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/86364 | archive-date = 9 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121009002535/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/86364 | url-status = live }}

At the first race at the Silverstone circuit, Ricciardo was involved in a spectacular incident with pole-sitter Jon Lancaster, in which Ricciardo was sent into a barrel roll, eventually landing on his wheels. The crash saw the end of his race, with teammate Jean-Éric Vergne becoming the eventual winner, following disqualifications. Securing pole for the second race of the weekend, Ricciardo spent much of the race leading the pack by upwards of three seconds. However, braking issues in the second half of the event meant that, on the final lap, championship-rival Esteban Guerrieri was able to pass the Tech 1 racer.{{cite news | last = Mills | first = Peter | date = 19 September 2010 | access-date = 20 September 2010 | title = Guerrieri triumphs after epic battle | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/86822 | archive-date = 9 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121009003024/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/86822 | url-status = live }}

Going into the final round of the season, Ricciardo sat just three points behind championship leader Mikhail Aleshin and 13 ahead of third-place man Esteban Guerrieri. Managing his 8th pole of the season,{{cite news | last = Mills | first = Peter | date = 9 October 2010 | access-date = 13 October 2010 | title = Ricciardo takes crucial pole | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87327 | archive-date = 9 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121009113100/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87327 | url-status = live }} Ricciardo managed a lights-to-flag victory, setting the fastest lap and placing himself equal first with one race remaining.{{cite news | last = Mills | first = Peter | date = 9 October 2010 | access-date = 13 October 2010 | title = Ricciardo wins to tie points lead | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87335 | archive-date = 9 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121009113108/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87335 | url-status = live }} After securing second place on the grid for the second race of the weekend, Ricciardo managed to hold position until the pit stops, where he was successfully 'jumped' by two of his rivals, including teammate Vergne. With only two laps left in the race and struggling for pace, Ricciardo was overtaken by championship rival Aleshin. Finishing in that order, Ricciardo failed to secure the title in his debut year, losing out to Mikhail Aleshin by only two points.{{cite news | last = Mills | first = Peter | date = 9 October 2010 | access-date = 13 October 2010 | title = Aleshin secures title, Guerrieri wins | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87402 | archive-date = 9 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121009113124/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/87402 | url-status = live }}

In 2011 Ricciardo raced for ISR Racing prior to his HRT call-up.{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88859|title=Ricciardo stays on in FR3.5 with ISR|work=autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=11 December 2011|access-date=12 December 2010|first=Jonathon|last=Noble|archive-date=14 January 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110114153755/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88859|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel Ricciardo 2011 Malaysia FP1 1.jpg's third driver at the 2011 Malaysian Grand Prix]]

Ricciardo made his track debut at the wheel of a Formula One car when he tested for Red Bull Racing at the young drivers test at Circuito de Jerez over three days, starting on 1 December 2009.{{cite news | last1 = Beer | first1 = Matt | last2 = Noble | first2 = Jonathan | date = 9 November 2009 | access-date = 10 November 2009 | title = Red Bull to give Ricciardo first F1 test | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80105 | archive-date = 8 August 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170808121758/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80105 | url-status = live }} On the final day of testing, he clocked the fastest time of the test by over a second. This placed him as the only driver to go into the 1:17 bracket.{{cite news | first = Jamie | last = O'Leary | date = 3 December 2009 | access-date = 3 December 2009 | title = Ricciardo ends Jerez test on top | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80428 | archive-date = 10 September 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160910220924/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80428 | url-status = live }} Red Bull Racing's team manager Christian Horner suggested that Ricciardo may replace his 2010 World Series teammate Hartley as the team's test and reserve driver.{{cite news | first = Jamie | last = O'Leary | date = 2 December 2009 | access-date = 4 December 2009 | title = Ricciardo eyes Red Bull test role | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80398 | archive-date = 10 September 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160910223057/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80398 | url-status = live }} Ricciardo and Hartley went on to share test and reserve duties for both Red Bull and sister team Scuderia Toro Rosso{{cite news | url = http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81063 | title = Ricciardo, Hartley to be Red Bull reserves | first = Jonathan | last = Noble | work = autosport.com | publisher = Haymarket Publications | date = 26 January 2010 | access-date = 27 January 2010 | archive-date = 29 January 2010 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100129214929/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/81063 | url-status = live }} until the latter was removed from the Red Bull Junior team.{{cite news | url = http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/239300/hartley-dropped-as-red-bull-reserve-driver/ | title = Hartley Dropped as Red Bull Reserve Driver | work = GPUpdate.net | publisher = GPUpdate.net | date = 21 July 2010 | access-date = 16 October 2010 | archive-date = 10 September 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160910214108/http://www.gpupdate.net/en/f1-news/239300/hartley-dropped-as-red-bull-reserve-driver/ | url-status = live }}

On 11 November 2010, Ricciardo was confirmed as the single driver to represent Red Bull Racing at the end-of-season young driver's test at the Yas Marina Circuit, on 16–17 November.{{cite news|date=11 November 2010|access-date=11 November 2010|title=Ricciardo to star for Red Bull at young driver test|work=formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Administration|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/11/11504.html|archive-date=8 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140408214503/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/11/11504.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo continued to show his one-lap prowess and dominated the event, with his fastest lap being 1.3 seconds faster than {{F1|2010}} World Champion Sebastian Vettel's qualifying lap the Saturday before.{{cite news|first=Edd|last=Straw|date=17 November 2010|access-date=17 November 2010|title=Ricciardo dominates rookie testing|work=autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88355|archive-date=4 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304002907/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88355|url-status=live}}

Days later, Ricciardo was confirmed as Toro Rosso's test and reserve driver for the {{F1|2011}} season and would take part in the first free practice session of each race weekend.{{cite news|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88501|title=Ricciardo gets STR Friday practice role|work=autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|date=26 November 2010|access-date=26 November 2010|first=Matt|last=Beer|archive-date=20 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101220130445/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/88501|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=26 November 2010|access-date=26 November 2010|title=Ricciardo to get Friday outings as Toro Rosso 2011 reserve|work=formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Administration|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/11/11575.html|archive-date=27 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101127200918/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2010/11/11575.html|url-status=live}} Franz Tost, Toro Rosso team principal stated that "having a hungry youngster on the books will keep our current driver pairing nice and sharp", referring to then Toro Rosso drivers Jaime Alguersuari and Sébastien Buemi.{{cite news|last=Reynolds|first=Jonathan|title=Careful Webber: this guy wants your seat...|newspaper=F1 Racing|date=June 2011}}

File:D_Ricciardo_2_Monza_2011.jpg]]

On 30 June 2011, Ricciardo was contracted to Hispania Racing by Red Bull Racing, replacing Narain Karthikeyan for the remaining races of the 2011 season (excepting the {{F1 GP|2011|Indian}}, to allow Karthikeyan to race at his home Grand Prix).{{cite web|date=30 June 2011|title=Hispania confirms Daniel Ricciardo will race for it from Silverstone|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/92740|publisher=Autosport|access-date=30 June 2011|archive-date=11 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121011093113/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/92740|url-status=live}} Ricciardo made his Grand Prix debut at the 2011 British Grand Prix at Silverstone Circuit.{{Cite web|date=30 June 2011|title=Ricciardo to make F1 debut for HRT at Silverstone · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2011/06/30/daniel-ricciardo-f1-debut-hrt-silverstone/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034110/https://www.racefans.net/2011/06/30/daniel-ricciardo-f1-debut-hrt-silverstone/|url-status=live}}

However, on 22 October 2011, a few days before the inaugural Indian Grand Prix, the race where Karthikeyan was due to gain back his seat for his home race, HRT F1 announced that Vitantonio Liuzzi made way for Karthikeyan, allowing Ricciardo to race in India and extend his learning curve that Red Bull Racing paid the struggling Spanish team to do, as well as allowing Karthikeyan to race in front of his home fans.{{cite news|date=1 October 2011|title=F1 car vrooms and wows on Rajpath|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/f1-car-vrooms-and-wows-on-rajpath/story-6QzkiZfndi8PGke3xMo5JK.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034118/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/f1-car-vrooms-and-wows-on-rajpath/story-6QzkiZfndi8PGke3xMo5JK.html|url-status=live}} In Abu Dhabi, Ricciardo retired with mechanical problems after starting 20th on the grid, and in the final race at the {{F1 GP|2011|Brazilian}}, Ricciardo finished 20th after starting 22nd on the grid.{{Cite web|last=Manbos|title=RACE - 2011 DANIEL RICCIARDO|url=http://www.f1cfa.com/season.asp?t=2011&pr=&driver=Daniel%20Ricciardo|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.f1cfa.com|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034824/https://www.f1cfa.com/season.asp?t=2011&pr=&driver=Daniel%20Ricciardo|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=27 November 2011|title=2011 Brazilian Grand Prix result · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2011/11/27/2011-brazilian-grand-prix-result/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034120/https://www.racefans.net/2011/11/27/2011-brazilian-grand-prix-result/|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_2012_Malaysia_Qualify.jpg at the 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix]]

On 14 December 2011, it was confirmed that Ricciardo would drive for Scuderia Toro Rosso for the 2012 season, alongside Frenchman Jean-Éric Vergne.{{cite news|last=Elizalde|first=Pablo|date=14 December 2011|title=Ricciardo, Vergne to race for Toro Rosso in 2012 Formula 1 season|work=autosport.com|publisher=Haymarket Publications|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/96745|access-date=14 December 2011|archive-date=13 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170113175312/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/96745|url-status=live}}

At the Australian Grand Prix on 18 March, Ricciardo managed to overtake his teammate Vergne late on the last lap to come home in ninth place, securing his first two World Championship points.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/10/australia/race-result.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022080002/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/10/australia/race-result.html|url-status=live}}

In wet conditions in Malaysia, he finished 12th, after having been first to switch to slick tyres. In Bahrain, he qualified sixth, but dropped back during the race and finished 15th.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/13/bahrain/qualifying.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=26 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926005253/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/13/bahrain/qualifying.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/13/bahrain/race-result.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=22 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022233113/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/13/bahrain/race-result.html|url-status=live}} In Monaco, he suffered his only retirement of the season, after having started from 15th position.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/15/monaco/race-result.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=5 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210805194421/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/15/monaco/race-result.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo would score points again only after the summer break, at the {{F1 GP|2012|Belgian}}, where he started from 16th and finished ninth.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/toro-rosso-qualify-15th-and-16th-at-spa/425516/|date=1 September 2012|title=Toro Rosso qualify 15th and 16th at Spa|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=16 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116142100/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/toro-rosso-qualify-15th-and-16th-at-spa/425516/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/19/belgium/race-result.html|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=29 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529162438/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/19/belgium/race-result.html|url-status=live}} He also had a run of three consecutive points scores from the Singapore to the {{F1 GP|2012|Korean}}.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/21/singapore/race-result.html|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=6 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406235258/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/21/singapore/race-result.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/22/japan/race-result.html|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=20 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820155520/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/22/japan/race-result.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/both-toro-rosso-drivers-scored-points-in-korea/427709/|date=15 October 2012|title=Both Toro Rosso drivers scored points in Korea|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=16 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116142100/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/both-toro-rosso-drivers-scored-points-in-korea/427709/|url-status=live}} He scored one more points finish in Abu Dhabi for the year, ending tenth.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/25/abu-dhabi/race-result.html|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=8 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408025404/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/races/25/abu-dhabi/race-result.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo finished 18th in the championship, with 10 points.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2012/drivers.html|access-date=16 November 2023|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112015731/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2013/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_2013_Malaysia_FP2_1.jpg]]

Toro Rosso re-signed Ricciardo and Jean-Éric Vergne for the 2013 season.{{cite news|date=1 November 2012|title=Ricciardo and Vergne get another year|work=AUSmotive.com|publisher=AUSmotive.com|url=http://www.ausmotive.com/2012/11/01/ricciardo-and-vergne-get-another-year.html|access-date=1 November 2011|archive-date=23 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123002053/https://www.ausmotive.com/2012/11/01/ricciardo-and-vergne-get-another-year.html|url-status=live}}

He began the year by not finishing the opening two rounds, both due to exhaust issues. In China, Ricciardo scored his first points of the year after finishing seventh, claiming his best finish in F1 by far.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/first-points-for-ricciardo-after-shanghai-race/433832/|date=14 April 2013|title=First points for Ricciardo after Shanghai race|access-date=17 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=17 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231117110357/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/first-points-for-ricciardo-after-shanghai-race/433832/|url-status=live}} He finished tenth at the {{F1 GP|2013|Spanish}}, following a slow start from 11th on the grid.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/points-for-the-team-toro-rosso-by-ricciardo-at-spain/434914/|date=12 May 2013|title=Points for the team Toro Rosso by Ricciardo at Spain|access-date=17 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=17 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231117110359/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/points-for-the-team-toro-rosso-by-ricciardo-at-spain/434914/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo again was unable to finish the {{F1 GP|2013|Monaco}} after Romain Grosjean crashed into the back of him, damaging his rear wing.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mixed-results-for-toro-rosso-on-monaco-gp/435470/|date=27 May 2013|title=Mixed results for Toro Rosso on Monaco GP|access-date=23 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=23 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123074826/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/mixed-results-for-toro-rosso-on-monaco-gp/435470/|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2013|British}}, Ricciardo had his best qualifying yet in fifth.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/toro-rosso-maintain-presence-on-top-10-start-grid-at-silverstone/436760/|date=29 June 2013|title=Toro Rosso maintain presence on top-10 start grid at Silverstone|access-date=23 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=23 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123074824/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/toro-rosso-maintain-presence-on-top-10-start-grid-at-silverstone/436760/|url-status=live}} He finished the race in eighth place.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2013/races/886/great-britain/race-result.html|access-date=23 November 2023|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=23 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323233725/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2013/races/886/great-britain/race-result.html|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo once again finished seventh at the {{F1 GP|2013|Italian}}, having held off Grosjean in the dying laps.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-finished-7th-on-toro-rosso-home-gp-at-monza/439941/|date=9 September 2013|title=Ricciardo finished 7th on Toro Rosso home GP at Monza|access-date=23 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=23 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123074825/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-finished-7th-on-toro-rosso-home-gp-at-monza/439941/|url-status=live}} More tenth places followed at India and the {{F1 GP|2013|Brazilian}}.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/additional-point-for-str-by-ricciardo-at-india/442385/|date=27 October 2013|title=Additional point for STR by Ricciardo at India|access-date=23 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=23 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231123074824/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/additional-point-for-str-by-ricciardo-at-india/442385/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo out-scored his teammate by seven points and out-qualified him for over three-quarters of the season. His impressive qualifying efforts of 30–7 against Vergne over their two years together helped promote him to Toro Rosso senior team, Red Bull,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo vs Vergne in 2013|url=https://www.racing-statistics.com/en/drivers/compare/daniel-ricciardo/jean-eric-vergne/seasons/2013|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1 Statistics|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034120/https://www.racing-statistics.com/en/drivers/compare/daniel-ricciardo/jean-eric-vergne/seasons/2013|url-status=live}} replacing fellow countryman Mark Webber.{{cite news |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-03/ricciardo-named-as-webbers-successor-at-red-bull/4930616 |title=F1: Australian Daniel Ricciardo named as successor to Mark Webber, driving for team Red Bull in 2014 |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |access-date=3 September 2013 |archive-date=29 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129135417/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-03/ricciardo-named-as-webbers-successor-at-red-bull/4930616 |url-status=live }} Ricciardo finished 13th in the championship with 20 points.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2013/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=12 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112015731/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2013/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo replaced Mark Webber at Infiniti Red Bull Racing at the start of the 2014 Formula One season, partnering Sebastian Vettel, a four-time world champion.{{cite news|last=Weaver|first=Paul|date=2 September 2013|title=Red Bull pick Daniel Ricciardo to partner Sebastian Vettel in 2014 F1|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/sep/02/red-bull-daniel-ricciardo-f1|access-date=7 March 2014|archive-date=7 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140307151105/http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/sep/02/red-bull-daniel-ricciardo-f1|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Cary|first=Tom|date=19 August 2013|title=Red Bull to replace Mark Webber with fellow Australian Daniel Ricciardo|work=The Daily Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/10252280/Red-Bull-to-replace-Mark-Webber-with-fellow-Australian-Daniel-Ricciardo.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/10252280/Red-Bull-to-replace-Mark-Webber-with-fellow-Australian-Daniel-Ricciardo.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=7 March 2014}}{{cbignore}}

File:Daniel Ricciardo (14191204502).jpg]]

In the first race of the season, the {{F1 GP|2014|Australian}}, Ricciardo qualified in second place behind Lewis Hamilton{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=15 March 2014|title=Lewis Hamilton on Australia pole, with Sebastian Vettel down in 13th|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/26591164|access-date=15 March 2014|archive-date=15 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315083246/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/26591164|url-status=live}} and finished the race in second place, withstanding pressure from rookie Kevin Magnussen in the final laps. Ricciardo was later disqualified, as his car was ruled to have exceeded the mandated hourly fuel flow rate limit.{{cite news|date=16 March 2014|title=Ricciardo excluded from Australia race results|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Administration|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2014/3/15579.html|access-date=17 March 2014|archive-date=16 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140316123359/http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2014/3/15579.html|url-status=live}} Had he not been disqualified, it would have marked the first time an Australian had made the podium at the Australian Grand Prix since the race became part of the World Championship in 1985.{{cite news|last=Clayton|first=Matthew|date=17 March 2014|title=Daniel Ricciardo disqualified from Australian Grand Prix|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|url=http://www.theage.com.au/sport/motorsport/daniel-ricciardo-disqualified-from-australian-grand-prix-20140317-34w1l.html|access-date=17 March 2014|archive-date=23 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123190518/https://www.theage.com.au/sport/motorsport/daniel-ricciardo-disqualified-from-australian-grand-prix-20140317-34w1l.html|url-status=live}} Infiniti Red Bull Racing filed an appeal against the disqualification, which was rejected by the International Court of Appeal, the FIA decision being upheld.{{cite news|last=Gill|first=Pete|date=15 April 2014|title=FIA reject Red Bull appeal and uphold stewards' decision to disqualify Ricciardo|work=Sky Sports|publisher=BSkyB|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/report/12475/9266769/fia-reject-red-bull-appeal|url-status=dead|access-date=17 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140827085350/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/report/12475/9266769/fia-reject-red-bull-appeal|archive-date=27 August 2014}}

Ricciardo failed to finish in the {{F1 GP|2014|Malaysian}},{{cite news|last=Johnson|first=Daniel|date=30 March 2014|title=Malaysian Grand Prix 2014: Red Bull racer Daniel Ricciardo hit with grid penalty after pit-stop error|work=The Daily Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/redbull/10733291/Malaysian-Grand-Prix-2014-Red-Bull-racer-Daniel-Ricciardo-hit-with-grid-penalty-after-pit-stop-error.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/redbull/10733291/Malaysian-Grand-Prix-2014-Red-Bull-racer-Daniel-Ricciardo-hit-with-grid-penalty-after-pit-stop-error.html |archive-date=10 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|access-date=24 April 2014}}{{cbignore}} but managed to record his first points of the 2014 season at the {{F1 GP|2014|Bahrain}}, where he finished fourth, after starting in 13th position.{{cite news|last1=Straw|first1=Edd|last2=Mitchell|first2=Scott|date=6 April 2014|title=Daniel Ricciardo 'proud' of recovery from 13th|work=Autosport|publisher=Haymarket Publications|url=http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/113326|access-date=24 April 2014|archive-date=24 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424100303/http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/113326|url-status=live}} He finished fourth again at the {{F1 GP|2014|Chinese}}. Ricciardo would not wait long for his first podium, securing third place at the {{F1 GP|2014|Spanish}}.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo, Vettel salvage Red Bull's Spanish GP|date=11 May 2014|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/motor/formula1/2014/05/11/ricciardo-vettel-salvage-red-bulls-spanish-gp/8969239/|access-date=25 November 2023|website=USA Today|language=en|archive-date=25 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125090406/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/motor/formula1/2014/05/11/ricciardo-vettel-salvage-red-bulls-spanish-gp/8969239/|url-status=live}} Monaco saw Ricciardo qualify in third, behind both Mercedes cars.{{Cite web|url=https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/2014-monaco-grand-prix-qualifying-press-conference/2786885/|date=25 May 2014|title=2014 Monaco Grand Prix qualifying press conference|access-date=25 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=25 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125090408/https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/2014-monaco-grand-prix-qualifying-press-conference/2786885/|url-status=live}} After dropping to fifth early on, he regained third after problems for teammate Vettel and Kimi Räikkönen. He narrowly lost to Lewis Hamilton to second place by 0.4 seconds.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-getting-closer-with-ricciardo-in-third-on-the-monaco-gp/451528/|date=26 May 2014|title=Red Bull getting closer with Ricciardo in third on the Monaco GP|access-date=25 November 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=25 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125090410/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-getting-closer-with-ricciardo-in-third-on-the-monaco-gp/451528/|url-status=live}}

At the {{F1 GP|2014|Canadian}}, Ricciardo leaped from sixth on the grid to third during the pit stops, and in the last four laps, he overcame Sergio Pérez and Nico Rosberg to take his first win of his career.{{cite news|last=Benson|first=Andrew|date=8 June 2014|title=Ricciardo wins ahead of Rosberg, Hamilton retires|work=BBC Sport|publisher=BBC|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/27756556|access-date=21 December 2014|archive-date=3 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150103153952/http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/27756556|url-status=live}} By winning, Ricciardo became the fourth Australian to win a Grand Prix in Formula One, joining Jack Brabham, Alan Jones and Mark Webber.{{cite news|date=8 June 2014|title=Daniel Ricciardo wins first F1 GP in Montreal|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-09/daniel-ricciardo-wins-first-ever-f1-gp-in-montreal/5509028|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034130/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-06-09/daniel-ricciardo-wins-first-ever-f1-gp-in-montreal/5509028|url-status=live}} His victory in Canada broke the chain of six Mercedes victories that marked the beginning of the 2014 season.{{Cite web|title=Discover the inside story of Daniel Ricciardo's maiden F1 win|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-first-f1-win|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Red Bull|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034115/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/daniel-ricciardo-first-f1-win|url-status=live}} Ricciardo impressed many by beating Vettel throughout the first half of the 2014 season, and after a clean and tight battle between Ricciardo and Fernando Alonso at the {{F1 GP|2014|German}}, Alonso described Ricciardo as "unbelievable" and "very, very smart, very respectful".{{cite news|last=Wise|first=Mike|date=20 July 2014|title=Fernando Alonso hails 'unbelievable' Daniel Ricciardo after close German GP duel|work=Sky Sports|publisher=BSkyB|url=http://www1.skysports.com/f1/report/24184/9388708/fernando-alonso-hails-unbelievable-daniel-ricciardo-after-close-german-gp-duel|access-date=16 August 2014|archive-date=26 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140726094829/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/report/24184/9388708/fernando-alonso-hails-unbelievable-daniel-ricciardo-after-close-german-gp-duel|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo won the {{F1 GP|2014|Hungarian}} on 27 July, ahead of Alonso and Hamilton having started fourth.{{cite news|last=Johnson|first=Daniel|date=27 July 2014|title=Lewis Hamilton beats Nico Rosberg to third at Hungarian GP in thrilling battle as Daniel Ricciardo claims victory|work=The Daily Telegraph|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/lewishamilton/10993987/Lewis-Hamilton-beats-Nico-Rosberg-to-third-at-Hungarian-GP-in-thrilling-battle-as-Daniel-Ricciardo-claims-victory.html|access-date=29 July 2014|archive-date=27 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727194847/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/lewishamilton/10993987/Lewis-Hamilton-beats-Nico-Rosberg-to-third-at-Hungarian-GP-in-thrilling-battle-as-Daniel-Ricciardo-claims-victory.html|url-status=live}} He was in third place behind Alonso and Hamilton with less than four laps remaining and overtook Hamilton's Mercedes with a pass on the outside of the Hungaroring's turn two. He then easily caught and passed Alonso's Ferrari, as Alonso had very little grip left on his tyres – television footage of his left front tyre after the race showed it to be badly blistered. In the final two laps, Ricciardo pulled away to win the race by 5.225 seconds.{{Cite web|title=2014 Hungarian GP: Daniel Ricciardo wins epic race as Lewis Hamilton surges to third|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/report/12523/9396741/2014-hungarian-gp--daniel-ricciardo-wins-epic-race-as-lewis-hamilton-surges-to-third|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|language=en|archive-date=6 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006180740/http://www1.skysports.com/f1/report/12523/9396741/2014-hungarian-gp--daniel-ricciardo-wins-epic-race-as-lewis-hamilton-surges-to-third|url-status=live}} His teammate Vettel survived a spin coming onto the main straight late in the race to finish seventh.{{cite news|date=27 July 2014|title=Daniel Ricciardo wins Hungarian F1 Grand Prix in stunning finish ahead of Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton|work=ABC News|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|agency=Reuters/Agence France-Presse|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-27/daniel-ricciardo-wins-hungarian-f1-grand-prix/5627688|access-date=16 August 2014|archive-date=25 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140825063933/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-27/daniel-ricciardo-wins-hungarian-f1-grand-prix/5627688|url-status=live}} Ricciardo became the second Australian to win the Hungarian Grand Prix, after Mark Webber's victory – also for Red Bull – in 2010.{{Cite web|date=1 August 2010|title=Webber wins F1 2010 Hungarian GP|url=https://www.crash.net/f1/news/162132/1/webber-wins-f1-2010-hungarian-gp|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Crash|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034108/https://www.crash.net/f1/news/162132/1/webber-wins-f1-2010-hungarian-gp|url-status=live}} Ricciardo then went on to score his third victory of his career to go back to back in Belgium, after the two Mercedes drivers collided. This meant he was the first Australian to win there since Jack Brabham in {{F1|1960}}.{{cite news|url=http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/8/16258.html|title=Daniel Ricciardo Q&A: Great to taste winner's champagne again!|date=24 August 2014|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Administration|access-date=21 December 2014|archive-date=10 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150210043310/http://www.formula1.com/news/interviews/2014/8/16258.html|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo finished the {{F1 GP|2014|Italian}} in fifth place, after a tense battle with teammate Vettel during the late stages of the race. At the {{F1 GP|2014|Singapore}}, he qualified third and finished in the same position.{{Cite web|url=http://www.crash.net/f1/feature/208932/1/singapore-grand-prix-postrace-press-conference.html#pxPhZpRvYXrQXYxU.99 |title=F1 Singapore Grand Prix: Post-race press conference|date=21 September 2014|website=crash.net|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151227004759/http://www.crash.net/f1/feature/208932/1/singapore-grand-prix-postrace-press-conference.html|archive-date=27 December 2015|url-status=live|access-date=16 December 2023}}

On 4 October 2014, it was announced that Ricciardo would partner Daniil Kvyat for the {{F1|2015}} season, following the announcement of Vettel's departure from the team.{{Cite web|last=Walthert|first=Matthew|title=F1 2015 Head-to-Head: Daniel Ricciardo vs. Daniil Kvyat at Red Bull|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2347881-f1-2015-head-to-head-daniel-ricciardo-vs-daniil-kvyat-at-red-bull|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Bleacher Report|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034118/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2347881-f1-2015-head-to-head-daniel-ricciardo-vs-daniil-kvyat-at-red-bull|url-status=live}} He took his final podium of the year at the {{F1 GP|2014|United States}}.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/podium-for-ricciardo-in-usa/458316/|date=3 November 2014|title=Podium for Ricciardo in USA|access-date=17 December 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=17 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231217064037/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/podium-for-ricciardo-in-usa/458316/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo clinched third place in the World Drivers' Championship at the {{F1 GP|2014|Brazilian}}, after retiring from the race. He was forced to retire on lap 39 due to a broken suspension.{{cite news|date=10 November 2014|title=Ricciardo fails to finish in Brazil but secures third place|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-10/daniel-ricciardo-fails-to-finish-brazilian-grand-prix/5879610|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915041123/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-11-10/daniel-ricciardo-fails-to-finish-brazilian-grand-prix/5879610|url-status=live}} In the final race of the season, the {{F1 GP|2014|Abu Dhabi}}, Ricciardo finished in fourth place starting from the pit lane due to a front wing infringement, and secured the first fastest lap of his Formula One career.{{Cite news |author=Will Dale |date=24 November 2014 |title=Daniel Ricciardo caps off stellar 2014 Formula 1 season with charging fourth at Abu Dhabi |website=NT News |url=https://www.ntnews.com.au/sport/daniel-ricciardo-caps-off-stellar-2014-formula-1-season-with-charging-fourth-at-abu-dhabi/news-story/19cfe34708c392b7c85035e4f8b2f4b4 |access-date=15 September 2021}} For his 2014 performances, Ricciardo won the Laureus World Sports Award for Breakthrough of the Year in April 2015.{{cite news|date=15 April 2015|title=Ricciardo wins Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award|work=Formula1.com|publisher=Formula One Administration|url=https://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2015/4/ricciardo-wins-laureus-breakthrough-of-the-year-award.html|access-date=15 August 2015|archive-date=13 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713101345/http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/latest/headlines/2015/4/ricciardo-wins-laureus-breakthrough-of-the-year-award.html|url-status=live}} Throughout the 2014 season, Ricciardo harnessed a total of 238 points, three wins and five more podiums.

File:Belgian GP - Infiniti Red Bull Racing - Daniel Ricciardo (20244193814).jpg]]

On 8 February 2015, during the third episode of series 22 of the popular British motoring television programme Top Gear, Ricciardo became the fastest Formula One driver to perform a lap of the Top Gear test track during the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car feature, beating the previous record-holder Lewis Hamilton with a time of 1:42.2.{{Cite web|last=DiZinno|first=Tony|date=10 February 2015|title=Daniel Ricciardo takes his smile, and speed, to Top Gear|url=https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2015/02/10/daniel-ricciardo-takes-his-smile-and-speed-to-top-gear/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=MotorSportsTalk {{!}} NBC Sports|language=en-US|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034120/https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2015/02/10/daniel-ricciardo-takes-his-smile-and-speed-to-top-gear/|url-status=live}}

In 2015, Red Bull slipped behind Ferrari and Williams in their efforts to take the title fight to Mercedes. The Red Bull cars were held back by the Renault power unit having been out-developed by Mercedes and Ferrari. The RB11 only showed pace in slow and twisty high downforce tracks{{original research inline|date=November 2021}} or rain{{failed verification|date=November 2021}}, highlighting the car's strong chassis.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2015/team.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=25 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161125071644/http://www.formula1.com/content/fom-website/en/championship/results/2015-constructor-standings.html|url-status=live}}

He finished the opening race at the {{F1 GP|2015|Australian}} in sixth, the RB11 seemingly uncompetitive as he finished a lap down.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/despite-ricciardo-points-a-frustrating-grand-prix-for-red-bull-in-australia/490868/|date=19 March 2015|title=Despite Ricciardo points, a frustrating grand prix for Red Bull in Australia|access-date=18 December 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=18 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218121137/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/despite-ricciardo-points-a-frustrating-grand-prix-for-red-bull-in-australia/490868/|url-status=live}} Following several points finishes in the first part of the year, Ricciardo's engine blew up on the final lap of the {{F1 GP|2015|Bahrain}}—whilst running in sixth—forcing him to use his fourth and final engine of the year.{{Cite web|last=van Leeuwen|first=Andren|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-i-did-all-i-could-do/553245/|date=20 April 2015|title=Ricciardo: "I did all I could do"|access-date=28 December 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228102414/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-i-did-all-i-could-do/553245/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo achieved his first top-five finish in Monaco with fifth and the fastest lap of the race.{{Cite web|date=24 May 2015|title=Raikkonen fumes over Ricciardo pass · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2015/05/24/raikkonen-fumes-over-ricciardo-pass/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034112/https://www.racefans.net/2015/05/24/raikkonen-fumes-over-ricciardo-pass/|url-status=live}} He had a woeful race at the {{F1 GP|2015|Canadian}}, where he finished 13th after being hit by car issues.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-doesnt-know-where-to-start-on-montreal-issues/610211/|date=9 June 2015|title=Ricciardo 'doesn't know where to start' on Montreal issues|access-date=28 December 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228102411/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-doesnt-know-where-to-start-on-montreal-issues/610211/|url-status=live}}

While tussling for second in Hungary with Nico Rosberg, his race-winning charge ground to a halt when the two clashed while hunting down Sebastian Vettel. Ricciardo managed to finish third behind his teammate.{{Cite web|date=30 May 2016|title=Formula 1 insider questions Red Bull Racing's party habits after Monaco Grand Prix debacle|url=https://foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/formula-1-insider-questions-red-bull-racings-party-habits-after-monaco-grand-prix-debacle/news-story/e98a55a074747a99ee95856ab1aeafa8|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034120/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/formula-1-insider-questions-red-bull-racings-party-habits-after-monaco-grand-prix-debacle/news-story/e98a55a074747a99ee95856ab1aeafa8|url-status=live}} It was his first podium since the 2014 United States Grand Prix. Ricciardo recorded his second podium of the season in Singapore, where he finished second and recorded his third fastest lap of the season.{{Cite web|date=20 September 2015|title=Daniel Ricciardo second in Singapore GP, Sebastian Vettel wins after fan invades track|url=https://heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/formula-one/live-coverage-of-2015-singapore-formula-1-grand-prix-from-the-marina-bay-street-circuit-singapore/news-story/31e6643cd5111def1766f30c45a0186b|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=28 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128024303/https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/formula-one/live-coverage-of-2015-singapore-formula-1-grand-prix-from-the-marina-bay-street-circuit-singapore/news-story/31e6643cd5111def1766f30c45a0186b|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo finished the season with 92 points in eighth place in the championship, three points behind teammate Daniil Kvyat.{{Cite web|last=van Leeuwen|first=Andrew|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-grateful-for-tough-2015-season/660832/|date=30 November 2015|title=Ricciardo "grateful" for tough 2015 season|access-date=28 December 2023|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228102413/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-grateful-for-tough-2015-season/660832/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo out-qualified Kvyat 14–5, and trailed him 10-9 in races across the season.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2015/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=4 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804080418/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2015/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_won_2016_Malaysian_GP_2.jpg]]

In a much more competitive Red Bull, Ricciardo began the season well, finishing 4th in both Australia and Bahrain and qualifying 2nd and then leading early on in the Chinese Grand Prix before suffering a tyre blowout and finishing in 4th again.{{cite news|last=Clayton|first=Matthew|date=20 March 2016|title=Australian Formula One grand prix 2016: Daniel Ricciardo hungry for more after fourth-place finish|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/australian-formula-one-grand-prix-2016-daniel-ricciardo-hungry-for-more-after-fourthplace-finish-20160320-gnmrf2.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/australian-formula-one-grand-prix-2016-daniel-ricciardo-hungry-for-more-after-fourthplace-finish-20160320-gnmrf2.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Newman|first=Stuart|title=Bahrain F1 Grand Prix 2016 Results: Winner, Standings, Highlights, Reaction|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2629933-bahrain-f1-grand-prix-2016-results-winner-standings-highlights-reaction|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Bleacher Report|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2629933-bahrain-f1-grand-prix-2016-results-winner-standings-highlights-reaction|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=17 April 2016|title=Chinese Grand Prix drive of my career: Daniel Ricciardo|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/chinese-grand-prix-drive-of-my-career-daniel-ricciardo-20160418-go8kw0.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/chinese-grand-prix-drive-of-my-career-daniel-ricciardo-20160418-go8kw0.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo qualified third at the Spanish Grand Prix, and after the two Mercedes cars of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg crashed out on the first lap, he led the early stages of the race.{{Cite web|last=Newman|first=Stuart|title=Spanish Grand Prix 2016 Qualifying: Saturday's F1 Results, Times, Final Grid|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2640050-spanish-grand-prix-2016-qualifying-saturdays-f1-results-times-final-grid|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Bleacher Report|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2640050-spanish-grand-prix-2016-qualifying-saturdays-f1-results-times-final-grid|url-status=live}} After a remarkable strategy call by Ferrari resulting in a very short third stint for Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull decided to answer this by pitting Ricciardo again and covering Vettel, also going for the presumed faster three-stop strategy.{{Cite web|title='We threw away win' with strategy - Ricciardo|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2016/5/-we-threw-away-win--with-strategy---ricciardo.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2016/5/-we-threw-away-win--with-strategy---ricciardo.html|url-status=live}} This dropped him behind Vettel, new teammate Max Verstappen and Kimi Räikkönen on track, and after a few failed attempts at passing Vettel, a tyre blowout late on in the race meant that he finished fourth again, behind eventual winner Verstappen, and the Ferraris of Räikkönen and Vettel.{{Cite news|title=Ricciardo bitter over Red Bull strategy|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/36297935|access-date=15 September 2021|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/36297935|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo scored his first pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix, and led the early wet stages of the race.{{Cite web|title=Monaco GP 2016, Qualifying: Daniel Ricciardo ends Red Bull pole wait|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12517/10297231/monaco-gp-2016-qualifying-daniel-ricciardo-ends-red-bull-pole-wait|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054853/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12517/10297231/monaco-gp-2016-qualifying-daniel-ricciardo-ends-red-bull-pole-wait|url-status=live}} However, after a very long pitstop in which his team took nearly 40 seconds to ready a set of tyres, he lost the race lead to Lewis Hamilton and finished the race in 2nd.{{cite news|date=29 May 2016|title=Bizarre pit lane mix-up costs Ricciardo victory at Monaco GP|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-30/monaco-gp-lewis-hamilton-wins-daniel-ricciado-second/7457422|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-30/monaco-gp-lewis-hamilton-wins-daniel-ricciado-second/7457422|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Red Bull reveals Ricciardo's tyres trapped at back of garage|url=https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-reveals-ricciardo-s-tyres-trapped-at-back-of-garage-741863/2982957/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=au.motorsport.com|date=29 May 2016 |language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://au.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-reveals-ricciardo-s-tyres-trapped-at-back-of-garage-741863/2982957/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo was notably upset after the race result, saying: "Two weekends in a row I've been screwed now. It sucks. It hurts."{{Cite web|date=29 May 2016|title='I've been screwed two weekends in a row' - Ricciardo · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2016/05/29/ive-screwed-two-weekends-row-ricciardo/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.racefans.net/2016/05/29/ive-screwed-two-weekends-row-ricciardo/|url-status=live}} A pair of seventh-place finishes followed in Canada and Azerbaijan.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-has-to-clean-some-things-up-says-ricciardo-777405/777405/|date=14 June 2016|title=Red Bull has to "clean some things up," says Ricciardo|access-date=4 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104132206/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-has-to-clean-some-things-up-says-ricciardo-777405/777405/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Elizalde|first=Pablo|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-baffled-by-struggles-with-softer-tyres-790013/790013/|date=20 June 2016|title=Red Bull baffled by struggles with softer tyres|access-date=4 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104132208/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-baffled-by-struggles-with-softer-tyres-790013/790013/|url-status=live}} A fourth place at the {{F1 GP|2016|British}} would soon come, having been outqualified by a teammate for the first time that year.{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/horner-verstappen-form-inspires-not-depresses-ricciardo-797832/797832/|date=11 July 2016|title=Horner: Verstappen form inspires not depresses Ricciardo|access-date=4 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=4 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104132210/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/horner-verstappen-form-inspires-not-depresses-ricciardo-797832/797832/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo returned to the podium in Hungary, finishing third, and in Germany, where he finished second.{{Cite web|date=25 July 2016|title=2016 Hungarian Grand Prix report|url=https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/2016-hungarian-grand-prix-report|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Motor Sport Magazine|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915060350/https://www.motorsportmagazine.com/articles/single-seaters/f1/2016-hungarian-grand-prix-report|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=2016 German Grand Prix race recap: so-so racing, great questions|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2016/08/01/2016-german-grand-prix-race-recap/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Autoblog|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.autoblog.com/2016/08/01/2016-german-grand-prix-race-recap/|url-status=live}} On the podium in Germany, Ricciardo performed a new celebration, where he drank champagne out of his shoe. He calls this celebration the "shoey".{{cite news|date=1 August 2016|title=Ricciardo's post-GP 'shoey' confounds F1 commentators|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-01/daniel-ricciardo-shoey-german-grand-prix/7680290|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-01/daniel-ricciardo-shoey-german-grand-prix/7680290|url-status=live}} He repeated the celebration at the Belgian Grand Prix (where he came second again), this time persuading podium interviewer Mark Webber to also drink from the shoe.{{Cite web|title=Belgian Grand Prix (Sky Sports)|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/grandprix/belgium/results/2016/race|access-date=15 September 2021|website=SkySports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://www.skysports.com/f1/grandprix/belgium/results/2016/race|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=28 August 2016|title=Webber joins Ricciardo with another 'shoey' on Spa podium (VIDEO)|url=https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2016/08/28/webber-joins-ricciardo-with-another-shoey-on-spa-podium-video/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=MotorSportsTalk {{!}} NBC Sports|language=en-US|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://motorsports.nbcsports.com/2016/08/28/webber-joins-ricciardo-with-another-shoey-on-spa-podium-video/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Bradley|first=Charles|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-reveals-red-flag-saved-podium-after-wing-damage-811021/811021/|date=29 August 2016|title=Ricciardo reveals red flag saved podium after wing damage|access-date=9 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109130154/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-reveals-red-flag-saved-podium-after-wing-damage-811021/811021/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo qualified and finished second at the Singapore Grand Prix, after pushing eventual winner Rosberg hard near the end, a late strategy change pushing him to under half a second behind at the finish line.{{Cite news|last=Ostlere|first=Lawrence|date=18 September 2016|title=F1: Nico Rosberg wins the Singapore Grand Prix – as it happened|language=en-GB|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2016/sep/18/f1-singapore-grand-prix-live|access-date=15 September 2021|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2016/sep/18/f1-singapore-grand-prix-live|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=F1 Results - 2016 Singapore Grand Prix|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2016/singapore-grand-prix/results|access-date=15 September 2021|website=BBC Sport|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2016/singapore-grand-prix/results|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo qualified fourth at the Malaysian Grand Prix but moved up to second into turn one, after a collision between Sebastian Vettel and Nico Rosberg.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2016/races/952/malaysia/qualifying.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2016/races/952/malaysia/qualifying.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2 October 2016|title=Ricciardo wins Malaysian Grand Prix|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-10-02/ricciardo-wins-f1-malaysian-grand-prix/7896716|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-10-02/ricciardo-wins-f1-malaysian-grand-prix/7896716|url-status=live}} He then took the lead late on in the race when leader Lewis Hamilton retired with an engine failure. After fighting with his Red Bull teammate Verstappen, Ricciardo took his first victory of the season.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/03/sports/ricciardo-wins-malaysian-grand-prix-red-bull.html?_r=0|title=Daniel Ricciardo Wins Malaysian Grand Prix in a Red Bull Sweep|work=The New York Times|date=2 October 2016|access-date=2 October 2016|last1=Spurgeon|first1=Brad|archive-date=23 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023011216/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/03/sports/ricciardo-wins-malaysian-grand-prix-red-bull.html?_r=0|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|last=Woolcock|first=Adam|date=2 October 2016|title=F1: Australia's Daniel Ricciardo wins Malaysian Grand Prix - as it happened|language=en-GB|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2016/oct/02/f1-malaysian-grand-prix-live|access-date=15 September 2021|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2016/oct/02/f1-malaysian-grand-prix-live|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=2 October 2016|title=F1: Daniel Ricciardo wins the 2016 Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang|url=https://heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/live-2016-formula-1-malaysian-grand-prix-at-sepang/news-story/449b269604f7e9498fb5e065e861845f|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=6 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406040245/https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/live-2016-formula-1-malaysian-grand-prix-at-sepang/news-story/449b269604f7e9498fb5e065e861845f|url-status=live}} He repeated his "shoey" celebration on the podium and was able to get team boss Christian Horner as well as podium sharers Verstappen and Rosberg to repeat the celebration.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo leads Verstappen in Sepang thriller|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/2016-malaysian-grand-prix-recap|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Red Bull|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054853/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/2016-malaysian-grand-prix-recap|url-status=live}} He finished third at the {{F1 GP|2016|United States}}.{{Cite web|last=van Leeuwen|first=Andrew|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-we-had-a-good-car-for-second-842340/842340/|date=6 May 2021|title=Ricciardo: We had a good car for second|access-date=9 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=9 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109130156/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-we-had-a-good-car-for-second-842340/842340/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo eventually sealed third in the Drivers' Championship following a podium finish in Mexico.{{Cite web|date=31 October 2016|title=F1: How Daniel Ricciardo ended up finishing third in the Mexican Grand Prix|url=https://foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-how-daniel-ricciardo-ended-up-finishing-third-in-the-mexican-grand-prix/news-story/fbbaefcbccb9d01602dcddd73b8370b3|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-how-daniel-ricciardo-ended-up-finishing-third-in-the-mexican-grand-prix/news-story/fbbaefcbccb9d01602dcddd73b8370b3|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo secures third in the standings with Mexico result|url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2016/10/31/13180/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Motorsport Week|date=31 October 2016|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.motorsportweek.com/2016/10/31/13180/|url-status=live}} He scored 256 points and achieved one pole, one win, seven other podiums and three fastest laps. Other than Sergio Pérez, he is the only driver to have been classified in every race of the 2016 season.{{Cite web|date=16 December 2016|title=2016 F1 season driver rankings #1: Ricciardo · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2016/12/16/2016-f1-season-driver-rankings-1-ricciardo/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.racefans.net/2016/12/16/2016-f1-season-driver-rankings-1-ricciardo/|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_2017_Malaysia_FP1.jpg]]

Ricciardo qualified 10th in Australia after spinning into the tyre barrier in Q3.{{cite web|author=Formula 1|title=Qualifying – Hamilton on pole as Ricciardo crashes out|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2017/3/qualifying---hamilton-on-pole-as-ricciardo-crashes-out.html|access-date=25 March 2017|archive-date=25 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170325203701/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/headlines/2017/3/qualifying---hamilton-on-pole-as-ricciardo-crashes-out.html|url-status=live}} He incurred a five-place grid penalty due to an unscheduled gearbox change as a result of the crash. A gearbox sensor issue prevented him from taking the start and when he did get going, two laps down, a sudden fuel pressure problem ended his race after 25 laps.{{cite web|author=jamesallenonf1.com|title=Daniel Ricciardo Keen to Move on from Horrible Home F1 Race at 2017 Australian Grand Prix|url=https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2017/03/daniel-ricciardo-keen-to-move-on-from-horrible-home-f1-race-at-2017-australian-grand-prix|access-date=27 March 2017|archive-date=16 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616231314/https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2017/03/daniel-ricciardo-keen-to-move-on-from-horrible-home-f1-race-at-2017-australian-grand-prix/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|date=26 March 2017|title='Let's get the f*** out of here': Ricciardo endures nightmare Aus GP|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-03-26/daniel-ricciardo-endures-nightmare-australian-gp/8388022|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-03-26/daniel-ricciardo-endures-nightmare-australian-gp/8388022|url-status=live}} In China, Ricciardo would finish fourth after narrowly losing out to teammate Max Verstappen on the last lap.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-came-alive-after-wing-change-says-ricciardo-892085/892085/|date=10 April 2017|title=Red Bull "came alive" after wing change, says Ricciardo|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111852/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/red-bull-came-alive-after-wing-change-says-ricciardo-892085/892085/|url-status=live}} Starting fourth at the {{F1 GP|2017|Bahrain}},{{Cite web|last=Freeman|first=Chris|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-perplexed-by-red-bull-qualifying-pace-upturn-894537/894537/|date=16 April 2017|title=Ricciardo perplexed by Red Bull qualifying pace upturn|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111855/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-perplexed-by-red-bull-qualifying-pace-upturn-894537/894537/|url-status=live}} and after a poor safety car restart which dropped him three places, he was able to pass Felipe Massa and finish in fifth.{{Cite web|last=Freeman|first=Glenn|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-geniunely-thought-red-bull-could-win-894950/894950/|date=17 April 2017|title=Ricciardo "geniunely thought" Red Bull could win|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111850/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-geniunely-thought-red-bull-could-win-894950/894950/|url-status=live}} He endured a second retirement in four races at the {{F1 GP|2017|Russian}}, pulling out on lap 5 due to brake issues. Ricciardo scored his first podium of the year, with third in Spain, albeit finishing over a minute behind the leaders.{{Cite web|title=What happened at the Spanish Grand Prix?|date=14 May 2017|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/f1-2017-spanish-grand-prix-recap-red-bull|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Red Bull Racing|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111848/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/f1-2017-spanish-grand-prix-recap-red-bull|url-status=live}} This marked the start of five consecutive podiums. He qualified fifth at the {{F1 GP|2017|Monaco}},{{Cite web|last=Klein|first=Jamie|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-ricciardo-frustrated-stupid-error-in-qualifying-911225/911225/|date=27 May 2017|title=Ricciardo frustrated by Red Bull's "stupid error" in qualifying|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111848/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-ricciardo-frustrated-stupid-error-in-qualifying-911225/911225/|url-status=live}} and a strong overcut allowed him to jump Verstappen and Valtteri Bottas for another third place.{{Cite web|title=FIA post-race press conference - Monaco|date=28 May 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-race-press-conference-monaco-2017.6hBOsj2NheE4ACyKcuYMSE.html|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119113352/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-race-press-conference-monaco-2017.6hBOsj2NheE4ACyKcuYMSE.html|url-status=live}} Yet another third place followed in Canada after jumping Kimi Räikkönen, and inheriting positions after Vettel stopped for a front wing change and Verstappen retired.{{Cite web|title=FIA post-race press conference - Canada|date=11 June 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-race-press-conference-canada-2017.2HLum5ibZCEkE8MKQ26Oy8.html|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119113359/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-race-press-conference-canada-2017.2HLum5ibZCEkE8MKQ26Oy8.html|url-status=live}}

At the first Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified tenth having hit the wall. Ricciardo pitted early on lap 5 due to brake issues, and was down to 17th. However, he would charge back to the top 10 in a matter of laps, and sat fifth at the time of the red flag. Following the restart, Ricciardo made a sensational three-car overtake that moved him to third place, sitting behind Vettel and Lewis Hamilton. However, Vettel was due to serve a stop/go penalty while Hamilton pitted due to a loose headrest, promoting Ricciardo into the lead.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-analysis-ricciardo-baku-chaos-unlikely-victory-923606/923606/|date=26 June 2017|title=Analysis: How Ricciardo navigated Baku chaos to win from 17th|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111854/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/f1-analysis-ricciardo-baku-chaos-unlikely-victory-923606/923606/|url-status=live}} He would then cross the line and win the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, four seconds ahead of Bottas.{{Cite web|date=25 June 2017|title=Ricciardo wins 'crazy' Azerbaijan Grand Prix|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-26/daniel-ricciardo-wins-azerbaijan-formula-one-grand-prix/8650748|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-26/daniel-ricciardo-wins-azerbaijan-formula-one-grand-prix/8650748|url-status=live}} At Austria, Ricciardo got past Räikkönen on the opening lap for third, and held off Hamilton for his fifth podium on the bounce.{{Cite web |last=Osten |first=Phillip van |date=9 July 2017 |title=Daniel Ricciardo: 'Five podiums in a row is awesome!' |url=https://f1i.com/news/273039-ricciardo-five-podiums-row-awesome.html |access-date=1 May 2022 |website=F1i.com |language=en |archive-date=12 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220512102922/https://f1i.com/news/273039-ricciardo-five-podiums-row-awesome.html |url-status=live }} Ricciardo took a five-place grid penalty for the {{F1 GP|2017|British}} due to a gearbox change,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo to drop five grid places after gearbox change|date=15 July 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-drop-five-grid-places-after-gearbox-change.7lWgGD4isgyagmcGuqgGkg.html|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119113402/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-drop-five-grid-places-after-gearbox-change.7lWgGD4isgyagmcGuqgGkg.html|url-status=live}} but he suffered a turbo failure in Q1, relegating to 19th on the grid.{{Cite web|last=Bradley|first=Charles|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-fears-he-has-lost-engine-after-big-failure-930947/930947/|date=15 July 2017|title=Ricciardo fears he has lost engine after "big failure"|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119111857/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-fears-he-has-lost-engine-after-big-failure-930947/930947/|url-status=live}} In a stunning drive, Ricciardo produced a comeback that saw him climb fourteen places to fifth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo: Rise from 19th to fifth enormous 'fun'|date=16 July 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-rise-from-19th-to-fifth-enormous-fun.1tA2dLPWXWawA8YI0gWsui.html|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119113356/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-rise-from-19th-to-fifth-enormous-fun.1tA2dLPWXWawA8YI0gWsui.html|url-status=live}} His run of form came to a halt at the {{F1 GP|2017|Hungarian}}, as he and teammate Verstappen collided at Turn 2 on the opening lap, causing Ricciardo's radiator to break and spin out a corner later.{{Cite web|title=Verstappen apologises as Ricciardo bemoans 'amateur' error|date=30 July 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-apologises-as-ricciardo-bemoans-amateur-error.1FDF2Ri70kueS0qymY6eKS.html|access-date=19 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119113354/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.verstappen-apologises-as-ricciardo-bemoans-amateur-error.1FDF2Ri70kueS0qymY6eKS.html|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo stood on the podium in third place at the {{F1 GP|2017|Belgian}}, having made up a place on Bottas during the second safety car restart from sixth on the grid.{{Cite web|title=Winners and Losers - Belgium|date=28 August 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-belgium.5lNetyE6D6I8csIymk0Gca.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133206/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-belgium.5lNetyE6D6I8csIymk0Gca.html|url-status=live}} However the next race in Italy forced Ricciardo to take additional power unit elements, which necessitated a 20-place grid penalty.{{Cite web|title=Grid penalties for both Red Bulls, plus Alonso and Sainz|date=1 September 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.grid-penalties-for-both-red-bulls-plus-alonso-and-sainz.2b1M1GeR2A8M268ycOKuaC.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133155/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.grid-penalties-for-both-red-bulls-plus-alonso-and-sainz.2b1M1GeR2A8M268ycOKuaC.html|url-status=live}} He qualified third, but was demoted to 16th.{{Cite web|title=FIA post-qualifying press conference - Italy|date=2 September 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-qualifying-press-conference-italy.49jtbxTMhWsemOEgcKwO2u.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133201/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fia-post-qualifying-press-conference-italy.49jtbxTMhWsemOEgcKwO2u.html|url-status=live}} Making yet another drive through the field, Ricciardo performed spectacular overtakes to end in fourth place.{{Cite web|title=Horner: Ricciardo 'one of the best overtakers out there'|date=3 September 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.horner-ricciardo-one-of-the-best-overtakers-out-there.1OD67hTJhGCwui2ceCgwaA.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133158/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.horner-ricciardo-one-of-the-best-overtakers-out-there.1OD67hTJhGCwui2ceCgwaA.html|url-status=live}} In Singapore, from third,{{Cite web|title=Red Bull confident victory still in their grasp|date=16 September 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bull-confident-victory-still-in-their-grasp.49UBdRfwKcigAGOmGGYke4.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133203/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bull-confident-victory-still-in-their-grasp.49UBdRfwKcigAGOmGGYke4.html|url-status=live}} He would inherit second at the start after a multi-car shunt, which was where he would finish.{{Cite news |last=Benson |first=Andrew |date=17 September 2017 |title=Hamilton wins after Ferrari crash |language=en-GB |work=BBC Sport |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41299491 |access-date=1 May 2022 |archive-date=20 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820171635/https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/41299491 |url-status=live }} Malaysia delivered another podium in third place, after front-row starter Räikkönen was unable to take the start,{{Cite news |date=1 October 2017 |title=Verstappen wins Malaysia GP, Vettel hitches a ride after bizarre post-race bingle |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-02/max-verstappen-wins-malaysia-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-third/9006764 |access-date=1 May 2022 |archive-date=1 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220501065330/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-02/max-verstappen-wins-malaysia-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-third/9006764 |url-status=live }} and secured third again in Japan.{{Cite web |date=8 October 2017 |title=Formula One: Lewis Hamilton wins, Daniel Ricciardo third in Japan GP |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one-lewis-hamilton-wins-daniel-ricciardo-third-in-japan-gp-20171008-gywpi3.html |access-date=1 May 2022 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |archive-date=1 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220501065330/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one-lewis-hamilton-wins-daniel-ricciardo-third-in-japan-gp-20171008-gywpi3.html |url-status=live }} This was followed by consecutive retirements in United States and Mexico.{{Cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-grim-renault-f1-reliability-972665/1374334/|date=30 October 2017|title=Ricciardo rues "grim" weekend for Renault-powered reliability|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133154/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-grim-renault-f1-reliability-972665/1374334/|url-status=live}}

At the {{F1 GP|2017|Brazilian}}, Ricciardo took another engine penalty that relegated him to 14th on the grid.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo, Hartley, Gasly all set for Brazil grid penalties|date=10 November 2017|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-hartley-gasly-all-set-for-brazil-grid-penalties.3dJt4WL2Ja6sOSwqIO2YEq.html|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133209/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-hartley-gasly-all-set-for-brazil-grid-penalties.3dJt4WL2Ja6sOSwqIO2YEq.html|url-status=live}} He was caught up in a spin at the start by being tagged by Stoffel Vandoorne, but would still vault up to finish in sixth place.{{Cite web|last=Bradley|first=Charles|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/brazilian-crash-ricciardo-magnussen-vandoorne-977931/1378126/|date=13 November 2017|title=Magnussen didn't see Ricciardo in three-way clash with Vandoorne|access-date=25 January 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125133156/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/brazilian-crash-ricciardo-magnussen-vandoorne-977931/1378126/|url-status=live}} After maintaining fourth in the drivers' championship for much of the season, a third retirement in the last four races at Abu Dhabi saw Ricciardo drop down to fifth in the championship, with 200 points, five points behind Räikkönen.{{Cite web|title=Daniel RICCIARDO - Retirement • STATS F1|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/daniel-ricciardo/abandon.aspx|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.statsf1.com|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.statsf1.com/en/daniel-ricciardo/abandon.aspx|url-status=live}} Ricciardo had scored one win, one fastest lap and nine podiums.

File:FIA_F1_Austria_2018_Nr._3_Ricciardo.jpg]]

Ricciardo started the season with a fourth-place in Australia, from eighth on the grid after a three-place penalty for speeding under red flag conditions.{{Cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo gets Australian Grand Prix grid penalty|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/daniel-ricciardo-gets-australian-grand-prix-grid-penalty-5321271/5321271/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.autosport.com|date=23 March 2018 |language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054852/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/daniel-ricciardo-gets-australian-grand-prix-grid-penalty-5321271/5321271/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=F1 Results - 2018 Australian Grand Prix|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2018/australian-grand-prix/results/race|access-date=15 September 2021|website=BBC Sport|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/2018/australian-grand-prix/results/race|url-status=live}} In Bahrain, he recorded a non-finish after an electrical failure on the second lap.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo: 'Brutal' retirement 'rips my heart out'|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-brutal-retirement-rips-my-heart-out.4P07MQs6v6WESGao4Mc8c8.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.formula1.com|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-brutal-retirement-rips-my-heart-out.4P07MQs6v6WESGao4Mc8c8.html|url-status=live}} His result in the 2018 Chinese Grand Prix was much better, taking a commanding victory by almost nine seconds, after starting sixth on the grid.{{Cite web|title=Get the race report, results and social media reaction from the Chinese Grand Prix.|url=https://www.redbull.com/au-en/china-f1-grand-prix-2018-report|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Red Bull|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.redbull.com/au-en/china-f1-grand-prix-2018-report|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo's victory and more reaction from F1's 2018 Chinese GP|url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/ricciardos-victory-and-more-reaction-from-f1s-2018-chinese-gp-4983085/4983085/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.autosport.com|date=18 April 2020 |language=en|archive-date=29 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129095822/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/ricciardos-victory-and-more-reaction-from-f1s-2018-chinese-gp-4983085/4983085/|url-status=live}} Running sixth for majority of the race, he and teammate Max Verstappen both pitted for fresher tyres under the safety car on lap 30. Ricciardo would put on an overtaking masterclass, overtaking five cars in a span of eight laps to win the race.{{Cite web|title=I don't win boring races! – Ricciardo on crazy China triumph|date=15 April 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.i-dont-win-boring-races-ricciardo-on-crazy-china-win.51nooejdNSwGamMImWsayE.html|access-date=9 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=4 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004053638/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.i-dont-win-boring-races-ricciardo-on-crazy-china-win.51nooejdNSwGamMImWsayE.html|url-status=live}} At the 2018 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified in fourth.{{Cite web|title=Strong winds could make for 'crazy' race - Ricciardo|date=28 April 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.you-dont-want-to-let-go-of-the-wheel-here-ricciardo-on-baku.1op7n9s8R6okOus8UoCSeo.html|access-date=9 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=1 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231001115645/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.you-dont-want-to-let-go-of-the-wheel-here-ricciardo-on-baku.1op7n9s8R6okOus8UoCSeo.html|url-status=live}} He was fighting for fourth with teammate Max Verstappen in the latter half of the race. On lap 40, both drivers collided, Ricciardo's front wing made heavy contact with his teammate's rear, and the incident caused both drivers to retire.{{Cite web|title=Max Verstappen, Daniel Ricciardo reprimanded for all-Red Bull Azerbaijan GP crash|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11352821/max-verstappen-daniel-ricciardo-reprimanded-for-all-red-bull-azerbaijan-gp-crash|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|language=en|archive-date=5 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211005051445/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11352821/max-verstappen-daniel-ricciardo-reprimanded-for-all-red-bull-azerbaijan-gp-crash|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=29 April 2018|title='It's a disaster': Ricciardo and Verstappen raked over coals for F1 crash|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-30/bottas-blowout-hamilton-f1-win-ricciardo-crash-angers-red-bull/9709730|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915034745/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-30/bottas-blowout-hamilton-f1-win-ricciardo-crash-angers-red-bull/9709730|url-status=live}} Following the race, Horner stated that both drivers were ordered to "apologise" at the Red Bull factory.{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/verstappen-ricciardo-ordered-to-apologise-in-red-bull-factory-1031803/3068902/|date=30 April 2018|title=Verstappen, Ricciardo ordered to apologise at Red Bull factory|access-date=9 February 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=27 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220927220821/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/verstappen-ricciardo-ordered-to-apologise-in-red-bull-factory-1031803/3068902/|url-status=live}}

File:2018 Chinese Grand Prix FP3 Daniel Ricciardo.jpg

At the Spanish Grand Prix, Ricciardo finished fifth and set the track record, after spinning under the virtual safety car.{{Cite web|title=Get the race report, results and social media reaction from the Spanish Grand Prix|url=https://www.redbull.com/int-en/spain-f1-grand-prix-2018-report|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Red Bull|date=13 May 2018 |language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054900/https://www.redbull.com/int-en/spain-f1-grand-prix-2018-report|url-status=live}} Coming into the 2018 Monaco Grand Prix, Ricciardo and Verstappen were considered favourites to win the race due to their cars superior chassis and down-force. Ricciardo topped all three practice sessions before qualifying, breaking the lap record with each session.{{Cite web|date=26 May 2018|title=F1: Daniel Ricciardo tops Practice 3, 2018 Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix|url=https://heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/formula-one/f1-daniel-ricciardo-tops-practice-3-2018-formula-1-monaco-grand-prix/news-story/2c2c50d6dea7e8f06f54d7a302452fe1|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=5 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205013114/https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/formula-one/f1-daniel-ricciardo-tops-practice-3-2018-formula-1-monaco-grand-prix/news-story/2c2c50d6dea7e8f06f54d7a302452fe1|url-status=live}} Ricciardo managed to secure the second pole of his career at Monaco, topping every qualifying session as well and setting a new lap record again.{{Cite web|date=26 May 2018|title=Ricciardo in blistering form to take pole position at Monaco|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-27/daniel-ricciardo-takes-pole-position-at-monaco/9804884|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054850/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-05-27/daniel-ricciardo-takes-pole-position-at-monaco/9804884|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title='I've got unfinished business' - Monaco pole-sitter Ricciardo|date=26 May 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ive-got-unfinished-business-monaco-pole-sitter-ricciardo.55tal9Gg9yyYOOmi4gY8cy.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=4 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004193148/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ive-got-unfinished-business-monaco-pole-sitter-ricciardo.55tal9Gg9yyYOOmi4gY8cy.html|url-status=live}} In the race, Ricciardo managed to hold off the Ferrari of Sebastian Vettel to take his first Monaco Grand Prix victory and his first Grand Prix win from pole position, having to manage a loss of power due to a MGU-K power output issue throughout the race.{{Cite news|last=Davies|first=Tom|date=27 May 2018|title=F1: Daniel Ricciardo wins Monaco Grand Prix – as it happened|language=en-GB|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2018/may/27/f1-monaco-grand-prix-gp-live|access-date=15 September 2021|issn=0261-3077|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054848/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2018/may/27/f1-monaco-grand-prix-gp-live|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=2018 Monaco F1 Grand Prix results: Daniel Ricciardo wins from pole, Lewis Hamilton finishes third|url=https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/2018-monaco-f1-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-wins-from-pole-lewis-hamilton-finishes-third/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=CBSSports.com|date=27 May 2018 |language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054849/https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/2018-monaco-f1-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-wins-from-pole-lewis-hamilton-finishes-third/|url-status=live}} His result would lift him to third in the standings, but his win would turn out to be his last podium of the season.{{Cite web|title=Title challenge 'not impossible' – Ricciardo|date=29 May 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.title-challenge-not-impossible-ricciardo.1CP2b7w6ZCEcuOGkEOAIeq.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=1 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231201125646/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.title-challenge-not-impossible-ricciardo.1CP2b7w6ZCEcuOGkEOAIeq.html|url-status=live}} He was set for a grid penalty at the {{F1 GP|2018|Canadian}} due to his damaged MGU-K,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo set for Canadian GP grid penalty|date=5 June 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-for-canadian-gp-grid-penalty.3qZ9SVBl2oAWwCoqkwi2iC.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=25 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230925095102/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-for-canadian-gp-grid-penalty.3qZ9SVBl2oAWwCoqkwi2iC.html|url-status=live}} but Red Bull opted to re-use his other from China.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo set to avoid grid penalty in Canada|date=7 June 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-to-avoid-grid-penalty-in-canada.eo420fuJjMcOC4qk2I8yW.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=28 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128155210/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-to-avoid-grid-penalty-in-canada.eo420fuJjMcOC4qk2I8yW.html|url-status=live}} Starting sixth,{{Cite web|title=Red Bull victory possible in Canada - Ricciardo|date=9 June 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bull-victory-possible-in-canada-ricciardo.3LKrwdHuRya8M8iQk6AqaQ.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=3 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003161212/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bull-victory-possible-in-canada-ricciardo.3LKrwdHuRya8M8iQk6AqaQ.html|url-status=live}} After jumping Kimi Räikkönen at the start, a successful overcut on Lewis Hamilton brought him to fourth place at the finish.{{Cite web|title=A 'little win' to beat Hamilton – Ricciardo|date=10 June 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.a-little-win-to-beat-hamilton-ricciardo.284cBGk3tWquo0q2qAw4Ga.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=23 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923021329/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.a-little-win-to-beat-hamilton-ricciardo.284cBGk3tWquo0q2qAw4Ga.html|url-status=live}}

Front wing damage mid-race limited progress in France, as he was passed by Räikkönen late in the race which demoted him out of the podium positions, eventually settling for fourth again.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo mid-race pace loss due to front-wing damage|date=24 June 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-mid-race-pace-loss-due-to-front-wing-damage.69Y91R7q8MWqScaYEeYG0U.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=29 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929101641/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-mid-race-pace-loss-due-to-front-wing-damage.69Y91R7q8MWqScaYEeYG0U.html|url-status=live}} More disappointment came on his birthday weekend at {{F1 GP|2018|Austrian}}, retiring with an exhaust failure on lap 54.{{Cite web|title=WINNERS AND LOSERS – Austrian Grand Prix edition|date=2 July 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-austrian-grand-prix-edition.3oYzXn9HFY2KmyYiIESWkc.html|access-date=12 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=23 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923044507/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-austrian-grand-prix-edition.3oYzXn9HFY2KmyYiIESWkc.html|url-status=live}} An uncompetitive weekend followed at the {{F1 GP|2018|British}}, finishing fifth after a DRS failure in qualifying.{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-drs-problem-frustrating-1057183/3137037/|date=8 July 2018|title=Ricciardo hampered by "frustrating" DRS problem|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043124/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-drs-problem-frustrating-1057183/3137037/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo hoping Monaco win wasn't 'last hurrah' for 2018|date=10 July 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-hoping-monaco-win-wasnt-last-hurrah-for-2018.2GXOG3AvokqOUwSQCG0g4c.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043129/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-hoping-monaco-win-wasnt-last-hurrah-for-2018.2GXOG3AvokqOUwSQCG0g4c.html|url-status=live}} He started the {{F1 GP|2018|German}} from the back of the grid after changing power unit components,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo to start German GP from back of grid|date=20 July 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-start-german-gp-from-back-of-grid.67F4Oa5MyIYaAWCqOcysgO.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=28 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928211254/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-start-german-gp-from-back-of-grid.67F4Oa5MyIYaAWCqOcysgO.html|url-status=live}} but suffered yet another engine failure during the race.{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-the-teams-said-race-day-in-germany.6E3Sben9rUmSYASGosiyeC.html|title=What the teams said – race day in Germany|website=Formula 1|access-date=15 February 2024|archive-date=28 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231128171441/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.what-the-teams-said-race-day-in-germany.6E3Sben9rUmSYASGosiyeC.html|url-status=live}} Bad luck continue to befall Ricciardo in Hungary, as a spin for Lance Stroll early in a wet session prevented him from completing a clean lap, knocking him out in Q2.{{Cite web|title=Shock Q2 exit down to bad luck – Ricciardo|date=28 July 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.shock-q2-exit-down-to-bad-luck-ricciardo.6Ahyh4RSwg2UIKIMASuoK0.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043135/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.shock-q2-exit-down-to-bad-luck-ricciardo.6Ahyh4RSwg2UIKIMASuoK0.html|url-status=live}} Following lap one contact with Marcus Ericsson, Ricciardo managed to progress to fifth place at the halfway mark. He would later make contact again with a damaged Valtteri Bottas on lap 68, but passed him back on the final lap for fourth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo 'beaten around' but happy with Hungary P4|date=29 July 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-beaten-around-but-happy-with-hungary-p4.6vIjNk9J1mUOkUQA2uEAIG.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043128/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-beaten-around-but-happy-with-hungary-p4.6vIjNk9J1mUOkUQA2uEAIG.html|url-status=live}}

On 3 August, Ricciardo announced his shock departure from Red Bull at the end of 2018.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo to leave Red Bull at the end of 2018|date=3 August 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-leave-red-bull-at-the-end-of-2018.XduPFHuIkogE4skIYIYmW.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043126/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-to-leave-red-bull-at-the-end-of-2018.XduPFHuIkogE4skIYIYmW.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo would suffer consecutive retirements in Belgium and Italy, being caught up in a first-lap incident in the former and sustaining a clutch issue in the latter.{{Cite web|title=Raikkonen blames poor qualifying for first-lap Ricciardo collision|date=26 August 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.raikkonen-blames-poor-qualifying-for-first-lap-ricciardo-collision.1wvlX22FBiUkYgsA0gOe8W.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043131/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.raikkonen-blames-poor-qualifying-for-first-lap-ricciardo-collision.1wvlX22FBiUkYgsA0gOe8W.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Renault: Clutch issue forced Ricciardo's retirement|date=2 September 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-clutch-issue-forced-ricciardos-retirement.3dlJBJOMw0YI0eueaiY8qW.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043125/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-clutch-issue-forced-ricciardos-retirement.3dlJBJOMw0YI0eueaiY8qW.html|url-status=live}} This was followed by two sixth places in succession, the latter race at the {{F1 GP|2018|Russian}} saw Ricciardo start at the back for a third time due to engine penalties.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo left frustrated despite having 'the race we expected' in Singapore|date=16 September 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-left-frustrated-despite-having-%27the-race-we-expected%27-in-singapore.44yUz5bWY8wy62wO28OYMg.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043133/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-left-frustrated-despite-having-%27the-race-we-expected%27-in-singapore.44yUz5bWY8wy62wO28OYMg.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Red Bulls, Toro Rossos and Alonso to start Russia race from back of the grid|date=28 September 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bulls-toro-rossos-and-alonso-to-start-russia-race-from-back-of-the-grid.313MzJAMxqaEQGygqoOWeg.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208224146/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.red-bulls-toro-rossos-and-alonso-to-start-russia-race-from-back-of-the-grid.313MzJAMxqaEQGygqoOWeg.html|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2018|Japanese}}, Ricciardo suffered another qualifying setback, being hit by an exhaust failure that confined him to 15th on the grid, having failed to set a lap in Q2.{{Cite web|title='I just can't catch a break' – Ricciardo on latest qualifying setback|date=6 October 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.%27i-just-can%27t-catch-a-break%27-ricciardo-on-latest-qualifying-setback.1QLS8hA1CAk6s8qWa8E8uI.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043134/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.%27i-just-can%27t-catch-a-break%27-ricciardo-on-latest-qualifying-setback.1QLS8hA1CAk6s8qWa8E8uI.html|url-status=live}} Fortunately, Ricciardo replicated his Hungary drive and pushed all the way to fourth place.{{Cite web|title=WINNERS AND LOSERS – Japanese Grand Prix edition|date=8 October 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-japanese-grand-prix-edition.5pWm9B1QXuYogSiO0CIEU0.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043138/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-japanese-grand-prix-edition.5pWm9B1QXuYogSiO0CIEU0.html|url-status=live}} Later in the season, he tied for the most retirements in the 2018 season, with 8 retirements in total.{{Cite web|date=29 October 2018|title=Ricciardo 'done' with 'cursed car' after retiring in Mexican Grand Prix|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-10-29/daniel-ricciardo-done-with-cursed-red-bull-f1-car/10441554|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915054851/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-10-29/daniel-ricciardo-done-with-cursed-red-bull-f1-car/10441554|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2018|United States}}, Ricciardo outqualified Verstappen for the first time since Monaco in fifth, the Dutchman endured suspension issues.{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-warned-kerbs-verstappen-red-bull/3199384/|date=21 October 2018|title=Ricciardo warned in advance about kerb Verstappen hit|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043127/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-warned-kerbs-verstappen-red-bull/3199384/|url-status=live}} However, his run of mechanical retirements hit him on lap 9, pulling over with a battery failure.{{Cite web|last=Freeman|first=Glenn|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-anger-us-gp-exit-horner/3199872/|date=22 October 2018|title=Ricciardo "put his fist through wall" after US GP exit|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043126/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-anger-us-gp-exit-horner/3199872/|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo secured pole at the {{F1 GP|2018|Mexican}} ahead of teammate Verstappen by a mere 0.027 seconds.{{Cite web|title=QUALIFYING: Ricciardo snatches Mexico pole from Verstappen|date=27 October 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.qualifying-ricciardo-snatches-mexico-pole-from-verstappen-in-red-bull-1-2.2rLj0h8r8k0Owi6aqAwoA8.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043136/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.qualifying-ricciardo-snatches-mexico-pole-from-verstappen-in-red-bull-1-2.2rLj0h8r8k0Owi6aqAwoA8.html|url-status=live}} A slow start dropped him to third, and was later passed by Vettel following the pit stops. Ricciardo did manage to catch up to Hamilton to reclaim third place, but to no avail as his car suffered a hydraulics issue on lap 61, forcing him to retire for an eighth time, tied for the most retirements in the 2018 season. After the race, Ricciardo insisted that his car was cursed and said that he "didn't see the point" in doing the final two races of the season.{{Cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-mexican-grand-prix-edition.3fhqs1luVO62MSOmUMOkUQ.html|title=Winners and Losers – Mexican Grand Prix edition|website=Formula 1|access-date=15 February 2024|archive-date=7 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240207033709/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.winners-and-losers-mexican-grand-prix-edition.3fhqs1luVO62MSOmUMOkUQ.html|url-status=live}} An engine penalty in Brazil dropped him to 11th,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo set for Brazil engine penalty|date=9 November 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-for-brazil-engine-penalty.4xwzyuuizmk2GOEsokkCmG.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929200433/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-set-for-brazil-engine-penalty.4xwzyuuizmk2GOEsokkCmG.html|url-status=live}} and narrowly missed the podium to Räikkönen by 0.4 seconds in another stunning charge.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo 'upset' at missing Brazil podium despite trademark recovery drive|date=12 November 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-%27upset%27-at-missing-brazil-podium-despite-trademark-recovery-drive.2nzBhB7oX6eaSm8ksWWcQq.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043130/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-%27upset%27-at-missing-brazil-podium-despite-trademark-recovery-drive.2nzBhB7oX6eaSm8ksWWcQq.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo finished fourth again at the season-ending {{F1 GP|2018|Abu Dhabi}} after a wrong strategy meant he finished fourth again.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo frustrated to have missed out on podium 'shoey' in final Red Bull race|date=25 November 2018|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-frustrated-to-have-missed-out-on-podium-shoey-in-final-red-bull.67J5I534rYwIOKqMMymA4C.html|access-date=15 February 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240215043330/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-frustrated-to-have-missed-out-on-podium-shoey-in-final-red-bull.67J5I534rYwIOKqMMymA4C.html|url-status=live}} He managed four fastest laps for the season, in Australia, China, Spain and Hungary and finished the season sixth in the World Drivers' Championship with 170 points.{{Cite web|title=DHL Fastest Lap Award 2018|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12430/11218072/2018-dhl-fastest-lap-award|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|language=en|archive-date=7 June 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200607075430/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12430/11218072/2018-dhl-fastest-lap-award|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2018/drivers.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=19 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219025934/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2018/drivers.html|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel Ricciardo during Hungarian Formula 1 GP.jpg]]

On 3 August 2018, it was announced that Ricciardo had signed a contract to drive for Renault in 2019 and 2020.{{cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo joins Renault Sport Formula One Team from 2019|url=https://www.renaultsport.com/daniel-ricciardo-joins-renault-sport-formula-one-team-from-2019.html?r=331&lang=en|access-date=4 August 2018|website=renaultsport.com|archive-date=11 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200711045459/https://www.renaultsport.com/daniel-ricciardo-joins-renault-sport-formula-one-team-from-2019.html?r=331&lang=en|url-status=dead}} His teammate for the 2019 season was Nico Hülkenberg.{{Cite web|date=28 July 2019|title=Daniel Ricciardo hits back at Renault teammate Nico Hulkenberg's criticism|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-hits-back-at-renault-teammate-nico-hulkenbergs-criticism/news-story/9743ec814b6b2b13c5f2245416e89723|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024108/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-hits-back-at-renault-teammate-nico-hulkenbergs-criticism/news-story/9743ec814b6b2b13c5f2245416e89723|url-status=live}} Ricciardo had a poor start to the season with retirements in the first two races, from front wing damage in Australia and power failure in Bahrain, having run well in the points in the latter race.{{Cite web|date=17 March 2019|title=F1 Australian Grand Prix 2019: Daniel Ricciardo loses front wing in crash just seconds into the race before retiring|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-australian-grand-prix-2019-daniel-ricciardo-crash-renault-lap-1-melbourne-results-latest-watch-video/news-story/49e3e8da54e0ea805b13670a7f668bb7|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024118/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-australian-grand-prix-2019-daniel-ricciardo-crash-renault-lap-1-melbourne-results-latest-watch-video/news-story/49e3e8da54e0ea805b13670a7f668bb7|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Bahrain Grand Prix 2019: Ricciardo: Double DNF 'heartbreaking' for Renault|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-double-dnf-heartbreaking-for-renault.410xAtFuMxTtrP64UHXICY.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.formula1.com|language=en|archive-date=26 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220526042859/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-double-dnf-heartbreaking-for-renault.410xAtFuMxTtrP64UHXICY.html|url-status=live}} A first Q3 appearance in China followed,{{Cite web|title=Renault drivers looking forward to attacking opening lap after Q3 breakthrough|date=13 April 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.first-lap-could-be-interesting-predict-fast-starting-renault-drivers.2KzyJiMVHmD7s4tDPBjXeV.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308110434/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.first-lap-could-be-interesting-predict-fast-starting-renault-drivers.2KzyJiMVHmD7s4tDPBjXeV.html|url-status=live}} before driving to his first points finish with Renault in seventh place.{{Cite web|title=Chinese Grand Prix 2019: Ricciardo reflects on first points for Renault|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.it-feels-good-ricciardo-reflects-on-first-points-for-renault.47B91Mx7QKDSCCYKBe5yXG.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.formula1.com|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024105/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.it-feels-good-ricciardo-reflects-on-first-points-for-renault.47B91Mx7QKDSCCYKBe5yXG.html|url-status=live}} In Azerbaijan, Ricciardo reversed into Daniil Kvyat when both cars stopped after an overtake attempt by Ricciardo, causing race-ending damage for both drivers and Ricciardo's third retirement in four races.{{Cite web|date=29 April 2019|title='I'll buy him a rear-view mirror for the next race': Another clanger for Ricciardo|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-29/daniel-ricciardo-reverses-dani-kvyat-azerbaijan-grand-prix-f1/11053588|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024112/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-29/daniel-ricciardo-reverses-dani-kvyat-azerbaijan-grand-prix-f1/11053588|url-status=live}} Six consecutive race finishes followed, he finished 13th at the {{F1 GP|2019|Spanish}} after a questionable race strategy.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo frustrated by Renault strategy calls in Spain|date=13 May 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-frustrated-by-renault-strategy-calls-in-spain.3loxnmwIuREcUFo7ZSjgNz.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308094907/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-frustrated-by-renault-strategy-calls-in-spain.3loxnmwIuREcUFo7ZSjgNz.html|url-status=live}} He had his best qualifying thus far with sixth in Monaco,{{Cite web|title='Brave' set-up changes pay off for Ricciardo and Renault|date=25 May 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.brave-set-up-changes-pay-off-for-ricciardo-and-renault.5htHPTNKribuDE0NMMbKNR.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308120446/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.brave-set-up-changes-pay-off-for-ricciardo-and-renault.5htHPTNKribuDE0NMMbKNR.html|url-status=live}} but a late call to pit before the safety car, dropped to ninth at the flag.{{Cite web|title='We missed a big opportunity' says frustrated Ricciardo after P9 Monaco finish|date=27 May 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.we-were-definitely-better-than-ninth-says-frustrated-ricciardo.1yuchgnWJQq4hRWrxOox8I.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308103423/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.we-were-definitely-better-than-ninth-says-frustrated-ricciardo.1yuchgnWJQq4hRWrxOox8I.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo had a successful weekend in Canada, improving his personal best qualifying position to fourth.{{Cite web|title=Fourth feels like pole, says Ricciardo after best Renault qualifying|date=8 June 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fourth-feels-like-pole-says-ricciardo-after-best-renault-qualifying.3ICRQUTdI2DfevQAwcVtbr.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308103420/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.fourth-feels-like-pole-says-ricciardo-after-best-renault-qualifying.3ICRQUTdI2DfevQAwcVtbr.html|url-status=live}} He proceeded to finish in sixth place, having held off a faster Mercedes of Valtteri Bottas for numerous laps.{{Cite web|title=Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2019/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en|archive-date=4 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201204210628/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2019/drivers/DANRIC01/daniel-ricciardo.html|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo crossed the line in seventh place at the {{F1 GP|2019|French}} having been embroiled in a four-car battle, but was given two separate five-second penalties on the final lap. This was for failing to re-join the track safely after overtaking Lando Norris, and then overtook Kimi Räikkönen off-track, resulting in him being dropped out of the points.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo handed two post-race time penalties, loses French GP points|date=23 June 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-handed-two-post-race-time-penalties-loses-french-gp-points.6oCa3OCCGfyBOTEC1Nvvv3.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201053434/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-handed-two-post-race-time-penalties-loses-french-gp-points.6oCa3OCCGfyBOTEC1Nvvv3.html|url-status=live}} After a perplexing race in Austria,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo fears Renault may have fundamental car issue to solve|date=7 July 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-fears-renault-may-have-fundamental-car-issue-to-solve.3E3PkdZY4xOAVipM5cPJxA.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308121952/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-fears-renault-may-have-fundamental-car-issue-to-solve.3E3PkdZY4xOAVipM5cPJxA.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo started and finished seventh at the {{F1 GP|2019|British}}.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo happy to 'put smiles back on faces' as Renault get both cars into Q3|date=13 July 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-happy-to-put-smiles-back-on-faces-as-renault-get-both-cars-into-q3.5GtVZcFBJjKjh8ZlI8kjzG.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308110437/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-happy-to-put-smiles-back-on-faces-as-renault-get-both-cars-into-q3.5GtVZcFBJjKjh8ZlI8kjzG.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Renault have to be pleased after 'awesome recovery' says Ricciardo|date=16 July 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-got-to-be-pleased-after-awesome-recovery-says-ricciardo.4pO6Dqi5V7cv0UPqwlws9E.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308104925/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-got-to-be-pleased-after-awesome-recovery-says-ricciardo.4pO6Dqi5V7cv0UPqwlws9E.html|url-status=live}} He then suffered an exhaust failure at the German Grand Prix.{{Cite web|date=1 August 2019|title=Renault looking at exhaust issue that ended Ricciardo's German GP|url=https://www.thecheckeredflag.co.uk/2019/08/renault-looking-at-exhaust-issue-that-ended-ricciardos-german-gp/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=The Checkered Flag|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024111/https://www.thecheckeredflag.co.uk/2019/08/renault-looking-at-exhaust-issue-that-ended-ricciardos-german-gp/|url-status=live}} More woes followed in Hungarian as he suffered a disastrous Q1 exit,{{Cite web|title='Perez and I screwed each other' says Ricciardo after both exit in Q1|date=3 August 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.perez-and-i-screwed-each-other-says-ricciardo-after-both-exit-in-q1.6696iBsGUZRMyiIatB3EIO.html|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308101915/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.perez-and-i-screwed-each-other-says-ricciardo-after-both-exit-in-q1.6696iBsGUZRMyiIatB3EIO.html|url-status=live}} and was then stuck behind Kevin Magnussen's Haas throughout the latter half of the race.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-magnussen-hungary-warning/4509285/|date=6 August 2019|title=Ricciardo: FIA warning "not enough" for Magnussen in Hungary|access-date=8 March 2024|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=8 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240308094907/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-magnussen-hungary-warning/4509285/|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo took a five-place grid penalty at the {{F1 GP|2019|Belgian}} due to a new engine, demoting him to tenth on the grid.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo, Hulkenberg and Sainz set for Belgian grid drops for taking new Renault engines|date=30 August 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/renault-to-take-new-ice-and-grid-penalties-for-2019-belgian-gp.5GqRntqbyzfNVzj1BqjdQl|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} A collision at the start with Lance Stroll caused significant damage to his car, seeing him fall to 14th place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo expected to retire car after Lap 1 clash|date=2 September 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-expected-to-retire-car-after-lap-1-clash.6veRoSeHzsqRjJ4UY4ktxa|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the Italian Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified fifth, and a spin for Sebastian Vettel during the race meant Ricciardo finished in fourth place, his best result of the year.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo: Renault's surprise Monza pace 'easy' to extract|date=7 September 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-renaults-surprise-monza-pace-easy-to-extract.5bAXhMkvBpl8X8UdU41MMK|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=8 September 2019|title=Leclerc wins F1 thriller as Ricciardo records best Renault finish|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-09/daniel-ricciardo-finishes-fourth-at-italian-f1-grand-prix-monza/11490810|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915025619/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-09/daniel-ricciardo-finishes-fourth-at-italian-f1-grand-prix-monza/11490810|url-status=live}} Hülkenberg finished in fifth, contributing to Renault's best finish since the team returned to the sport in {{F1|2016}}.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo: Renault performance at power-hungry Monza 'a real statement': Italian Grand Prix 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-renault-performance-at-power-rewarding-monza-a-real-statement.2LfFxlXigV3v72QCXFN6QG.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.formula1.com|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024110/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-renault-performance-at-power-rewarding-monza-a-real-statement.2LfFxlXigV3v72QCXFN6QG.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo qualified eighth for the {{F1 GP|2019|Singapore}} but was disqualified due to exceeding the MGU-K power limit during Q1, relegating him to the back.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo disqualified from Singapore qualifying for power breach|date=21 September 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-referred-to-the-stewards-for-exceeding-power-usage-in-qualifying.wJ3sPDbfCFySenaqgM9bp|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He had an eventful race, moving up to 12th by lap 10 but then suffering a puncture after contact with Antonio Giovinazzi. Following that, Ricciardo was embroiled in multiple battles and came home for 14th place.{{Cite web|title=Renault left with feeling of 'what could have been' after Singapore|date=23 September 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/renault-left-with-feeling-of-what-could-have-been-after-singapore.5TdC6Xnrx8GN8z4i7LlnAE|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

Ricciardo was involved in a first-lap collision in Russia, leading to his eventual retirement.{{Cite web|date=29 September 2019|title=F1 Russian Grand Prix 2019: Daniel Ricciardo's hopes crushed on very first lap|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-russian-grand-prix-2019-over-from-the-start-daniel-ricciardos-hopes-crushed-on-very-first-lap/news-story/0741bba40c7e61734151d50bd4757c61|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024113/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-russian-grand-prix-2019-over-from-the-start-daniel-ricciardos-hopes-crushed-on-very-first-lap/news-story/0741bba40c7e61734151d50bd4757c61|url-status=live}} Ricciardo charged from 16th to sixth place in Japan after an excellent final stint.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo 'really happy' with Suzuka recovery drive after frustrating qualifying|date=14 October 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-really-happy-with-suzuka-recovery-drive-after-frustrating.6qAtApB8IprkB3zlVYYirZ|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} However, both Renault cars were disqualified ten days later for using illegal driver aids.{{Cite web|date=23 October 2019|title=Renault disqualified from results of the Japanese Grand Prix|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-disqualified-from-results-of-the-japanese-grand-prix.5lDaMU1SWKaXnpEP93CLVB.html|access-date=5 January 2020|website=www.formula1.com|archive-date=23 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023201338/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.renault-disqualified-from-results-of-the-japanese-grand-prix.5lDaMU1SWKaXnpEP93CLVB.html|url-status=live}} From 13th in Mexico, Ricciardo finished in eighth place having pressured Sergio Pérez's Racing Point towards the end.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo left wondering why rivals didn't copy his Mexico strategy|date=28 October 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-wondering-why-rivals-didnt-copy-his-mexico-strategy.3LMSlJmR46DCUq2rQCBUJx|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He would follow this with sixth-place finishes in the United States and Brazil,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo enjoys 'fun' COTA race, as Renault take first back-to-back double points|date=4 November 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-enjoys-fun-cota-race-as-renault-take-first-back-to-back-double.4KRNFBo3V2cGpy366u6wLl|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} making contact with Kevin Magnussen during the latter, in which Ricciardo sustained front wing damage and earned a five-second time penalty.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo 'proud' of Brazil fightback to P6|date=18 November 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-proud-of-brazil-fightback-to-p6.5e275FjohdwslzdT2fxMFs|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He wrapped up with 11th place at the {{F1 GP|2019|Abu Dhabi}}.{{Cite web|title=Renault avoided 'punch in the guts' by securing fifth in standings, says Ricciardo|date=5 December 2019|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/renault-avoided-punch-in-the-guts-by-securing-fifth-in-standings-says.63z4JNu4iDbJOPxB1MlvFT|access-date=1 May 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

Ricciardo ended a relatively disappointing season for Renault in ninth place in the championship, with 54 points, ahead of teammate Hülkenberg.{{Cite web|title=GPToday.net's 2019 F1 driver rankings - #9 - Daniel Ricciardo|url=https://www.gptoday.net/en/news/f1/253041/gptoday-net-s-2019-f1-driver-rankings-9-daniel-ricciardo|access-date=15 September 2021|website=GPToday.net|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024112/https://www.gptoday.net/en/news/f1/253041/gptoday-net-s-2019-f1-driver-rankings-9-daniel-ricciardo|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_2020_Tuscan_Grand_Prix_2_(cropped).jpg]]

Ricciardo had a new teammate for the 2020 season, with Hülkenberg being replaced by Esteban Ocon.{{Cite news |author=James Matthey |date=15 July 2020 |title=F1 2020: Daniel Ricciardo addresses fight with Esteban Ocon |website=news.com.au |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-daniel-ricciardo-addresses-fight-with-esteban-ocon/news-story/b4f863a156ef9098cc517434e84e0276 |access-date=15 September 2021 |archive-date=15 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024105/https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-daniel-ricciardo-addresses-fight-with-esteban-ocon/news-story/b4f863a156ef9098cc517434e84e0276 |url-status=live }} Ricciardo started the season with a retirement at the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix after his Renault R.S.20 overheated on lap 16.{{Cite web|date=5 July 2020|title=Daniel Ricciardo's silver lining in 'unkind' F1 retirement chaos|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardos-silver-lining-in-unkind-f1-retirement-chaos/news-story/28e05596bf17f64e3a898e04de38ca32|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024116/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardos-silver-lining-in-unkind-f1-retirement-chaos/news-story/28e05596bf17f64e3a898e04de38ca32|url-status=live}} After qualifying ninth for the {{F1 GP|2020|Styrian}},{{Cite web|title=‘We had more performance on the table’ says Ocon despite securing P5|date=11 July 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/we-had-more-performance-on-the-table-says-ocon-despite-securing-p5.1hohQsZWimO4DOZESyMf91|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo was running in sixth place with two laps remaining, but was overtaken by Lance Stroll and Lando Norris. In a close battle towards the end, he finished the race in eighth.{{Cite web |date=12 July 2020 |title=Styrian Grand Prix 2020 race report and highlights: Lewis Hamilton eases to Styrian Grand Prix victory over Bottas as Ferraris collide {{!}} Formula 1® |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-eases-to-styrian-grand-prix-victory-over-bottas-as-ferraris-collide.5PfZ0DxltY7qOrbeVXMLa3.html |access-date=8 May 2022 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=16 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200716054623/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.hamilton-eases-to-styrian-grand-prix-victory-over-bottas-as-ferraris-collide.5PfZ0DxltY7qOrbeVXMLa3.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=‘He forced us both off the track’ – Ricciardo frustrated with Stroll move as race ‘falls apart’ in last two laps|date=12 July 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/he-forced-us-both-off-the-track-ricciardo-frustrated-with-stroll-move-as.4H5a6JHDpIWXHwd8F3ZqtP|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo qualified eleventh at the {{F1 GP|2020|Hungarian}}{{Cite web |last=Bradley |first=Charles |date=18 July 2020 |title=F1 Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying results, who was fastest? |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/2020-f1-hungarian-grand-prix-qualifying-results-full-grid-lineup/4839130/ |access-date=8 May 2022 |website=www.motorsport.com |language=en |archive-date=8 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220508020118/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/2020-f1-hungarian-grand-prix-qualifying-results-full-grid-lineup/4839130/ |url-status=live }} and finished the race in eighth place.{{Cite web|date=19 July 2020|title=Hamilton says there's not enough support for protests, wins Hungarian GP|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-20/f1-lewis-hamilton-wins-hungarian-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo/12471602|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=20 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720004652/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-20/f1-lewis-hamilton-wins-hungarian-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo/12471602|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Renault pace ‘not too shabby’ and close to Racing Point – Ricciardo|date=21 July 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/renault-pace-not-too-shabby-and-close-to-racing-point-ricciardo.6C0MgoeD6qDQKychsSSG7p|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

At the {{F1 GP|2020|British}}, Ricciardo qualified in eighth.{{Cite web|title='You have to be on your toes' – Ricciardo on the key factor that makes Silverstone such a challenge|date=1 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/you-have-to-be-on-your-toes-ricciardo-on-the-key-factor-that-makes.13nBgmXtJ0SsldMcitFMcB|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo finished in fourth place, gaining two positions in the final laps after overtaking Lando Norris and then Carlos Sainz Jr. sustaining a puncture.{{Cite web|date=2 August 2020|title=Ricciardo equals best-ever Renault finish as Hamilton wins on three wheels in stunning last lap|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-british-gp-live-updates-grid-results-daniel-ricciardo-order-start-time-in-australia-how-to-watch-silverstone/news-story/99160fdcaed072e6b60addeff92531c0|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024114/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-british-gp-live-updates-grid-results-daniel-ricciardo-order-start-time-in-australia-how-to-watch-silverstone/news-story/99160fdcaed072e6b60addeff92531c0|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo hails ‘top 6’ pace of R.S.20 at Silverstone as he finishes just 1.1s off the podium|date=3 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-hails-top-6-pace-of-r-s-20-at-silverstone-as-he-finishes-just-1-1s.36D9actczeZL5W4kH5E6UC|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He was running in sixth place before late tyre punctures for Carlos Sainz Jr. and Valtteri Bottas promoted him to fourth. At the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified fifth,{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says ‘on the fly’ race strategy will be key to capitalising on P5 grid slot|date=8 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-on-the-fly-race-strategy-will-be-key-to-capitalising-on-p5.1ar6D6GfE6BQ17VmyREHA5|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} but spun midway through the race and finished 14th.{{Cite news |author=James Matthey |date=10 August 2020 |title=F1 2020: F1 2020: Daniel Ricciardo'\'s big mistake in awful 70th Anniversary Grand Prix |website=news.com.au |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-f1-2020-daniel-ricciardos-big-mistake-in-awful-70th-anniversary-grand-prix/news-story/f96221d2f0a07a34afb6d7ab2e53652b |access-date=15 September 2021 |archive-date=15 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024108/https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-f1-2020-daniel-ricciardos-big-mistake-in-awful-70th-anniversary-grand-prix/news-story/f96221d2f0a07a34afb6d7ab2e53652b |url-status=live }} Ricciardo qualified thirteenth and finished eleventh at the next race in Spain.{{Cite web|date=17 August 2020|title=The harsh truth Daniel Ricciardo knew 'deep down' in Spanish Grand Prix shocker|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-spanish-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-reacts-to-renault-result-standings-esteban-ocon/news-story/a2d85b667a89b8a00c06f164a7cf77d0|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024123/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-spanish-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-reacts-to-renault-result-standings-esteban-ocon/news-story/a2d85b667a89b8a00c06f164a7cf77d0|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo looking forward to ‘fun’ Spa after frustrating Spanish GP|date=17 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-looking-forward-to-fun-spa-after-frustrating-spanish-gp.4HiMMfIyGHkGQZlU8B9Kbi|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

Ricciardo would go on an eleven race point-scoring streak until the end of the season, starting with the {{F1 GP|2020|Belgian}}, where he qualified in an impressive fourth.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo 'stoked' with P4 as he leads Renault’s best qualifying of 2020|date=29 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-stoked-with-p4-as-he-leads-renaults-best-qualifying-of-2020.5dbbfeo74Ku8QpUjLiS2MH|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} After a challenge on Max Verstappen, he would secure his fourth place, as well as taking the fastest lap on the last lap of the race.{{Cite web|date=31 August 2020|title='I've never heard that': Mercedes ace fumes at Hamilton order as Ricciardo seizes huge F1 chance|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/f1-2020-belgian-grand-prix-how-to-watch-results-grid-daniel-ricciardo-lewis-hamilton/news-story/71f435a3c96db1777d08ea30526964af|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024112/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/f1-2020-belgian-grand-prix-how-to-watch-results-grid-daniel-ricciardo-lewis-hamilton/news-story/71f435a3c96db1777d08ea30526964af|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo buzzing after ‘big’ final lap gives him extra point to go with fourth place|date=30 August 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-buzzing-after-big-final-lap-gives-him-extra-point-to-go-with.4h0edTRLhDwjaZa7uqn4us|access-date=20 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the 2020 Italian Grand Prix, he qualified seventh and finished in sixth place.{{Cite web|date=7 September 2020|title=Red Bull reject nails 'unbelievable' redemption as 'crazy' twist ruins Ricciardo dream|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-italian-grand-prix-pierre-gasly-wins-at-monza-daniel-ricciardo-renault-podium-dream-ruined/news-story/0b7321675b92f3eae08bef195d60aca3|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024111/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-italian-grand-prix-pierre-gasly-wins-at-monza-daniel-ricciardo-renault-podium-dream-ruined/news-story/0b7321675b92f3eae08bef195d60aca3|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=‘We’ll get another chance’ – Ricciardo not dwelling on missing out on Italian GP podium|date=10 September 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/well-get-another-chance-ricciardo-not-dwelling-on-missing-out-on-italian-gp.2gdglgRqQ4dp4JCEHuGOWl|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1 GP|2020|Tuscan}}, he qualified eighth and was able to move up to fourth, eventually jumping Lance Stroll to run in third place.{{Cite web|title=‘This track bites when you push too hard’ – Ocon has no regrets for overstepping limits in Q3|date=12 September 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/this-track-bites-when-you-push-too-hard-ocon-has-no-regrets-for-overstepping.3og1BGKDg6UC9BCZj8YoTP|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the second red flag restart, Ricciardo briefly moved up to second, but was re-overtaken by Valtteri Bottas and later by Alex Albon, leaving him to finishing in fourth place.{{Cite web|date=15 September 2020|title='It certainly hurts': Ricciardo hiding 'pain' behind trademark smile|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-news-2020-daniel-ricciardo-tuscan-grand-prix-results-renault-tattoo-cyril-abiteboul-bet-driver-standings-points/news-story/f03908635eb14e9f960a3b9f6ec6f95c|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024114/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-news-2020-daniel-ricciardo-tuscan-grand-prix-results-renault-tattoo-cyril-abiteboul-bet-driver-standings-points/news-story/f03908635eb14e9f960a3b9f6ec6f95c|url-status=live}}

At the {{F1 GP|2020|Russian}}, Ricciardo was fastest in the second qualifying segment, and managed to qualify in fifth place.{{Cite web|date=26 September 2020|title=F1 Russian Grand Prix qualifying: Nerveless Hamilton seals clutch pole as Vettel crash sparks chaotic qualifying session|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-russian-grand-prix-news-qualifying-daniel-ricciardo-results-live-blog-standings-mercedes/news-story/15de0af7c1cf32ba5f1da4c796f50fec|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024118/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-russian-grand-prix-news-qualifying-daniel-ricciardo-results-live-blog-standings-mercedes/news-story/15de0af7c1cf32ba5f1da4c796f50fec|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo hoping ‘odd side’ grid slot can give him advantage in fight for fourth with Perez|date=26 September 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-hoping-odd-side-grid-slot-can-give-him-advantage-in-fight-for.cqHhqwgmS6g75IuxREqoM|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} In the race, he finished in fifth place following a five-second penalty for violating track limits when he overtook teammate Ocon.{{Cite web |title=Ricciardo: Sochi time penalty "lit a fire under my bum" |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-sochi-time-penalty-lit-a-fire-under-my-bum/4883301/?ic_source=home-page-widget&ic_medium=widget&ic_campaign=widget-2 |access-date=12 January 2023 |website=www.motorsport.com | date=27 September 2020 |language=en |archive-date=12 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112125447/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-sochi-time-penalty-lit-a-fire-under-my-bum/4883301/?ic_source=home-page-widget&ic_medium=widget&ic_campaign=widget-2 |url-status=live }} At the {{F1 GP|2020|Eifel}}, Ricciardo qualified sixth and quickly made his way to fourth place in the early laps.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo: Sixth on grid at high-downforce Nurburgring confirms progress Renault have made|date=10 October 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-sixth-on-grid-at-high-downforce-nurburgring-confirms-progress.1WWrVlDGqsRZsk93kmRpvp|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} After Bottas ahead retired, Ricciardo would eventually secure third, earning the team's first podium since the 2011 Malaysian Grand Prix.{{Cite web|date=11 October 2020|title=Daniel Ricciardo FINALLY ends F1 podium pain as Lewis Hamilton levels Michael Schumacher|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-live-formula-1-at-nurburgring-eifel-grand-prix-live-blog-results-start-time-online-stream-lewis-hamilton-daniel-ricciardo/news-story/c94377e572baaab0c2831706155733ee|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024105/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-live-formula-1-at-nurburgring-eifel-grand-prix-live-blog-results-start-time-online-stream-lewis-hamilton-daniel-ricciardo/news-story/c94377e572baaab0c2831706155733ee|url-status=live}} This was Ricciardo's first podium since joining Renault, and his first since the 2018 Monaco Grand Prix.{{Cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo: Eifel Grand Prix podium 'feels like the first all over again'|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-eifel-gp-podium-feels-like-the-first-all-over-again.2QvdFK14X45Dlf1aOXDM7L.html|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.formula1.com|language=en|archive-date=4 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210804231616/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-eifel-gp-podium-feels-like-the-first-all-over-again.2QvdFK14X45Dlf1aOXDM7L.html|url-status=live}}

In the next race, the {{F1 GP|2020|Portuguese}}, he started tenth after having a crash towards the end of the second segment of qualifying, damaging his rear wing.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo vows to make up for qualifying spin in Portuguese GP after missing out on Q3 run|date=24 October 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-vows-to-make-up-for-qualifying-spin-in-portuguese-gp-after-missing.1z507UwbZMF1PXq9xgvLSx|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He finished ninth in the race, describing it as "damage limitation".{{Cite web|date=26 October 2020|title=F1 reality check for Daniel Ricciardo as teammate edges 'closer and closer'|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-portuguese-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-beaten-by-renault-teammate-esteban-ocon-results-standings/news-story/b41dd93ea9c6de2b7194e0258d9625e4|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024121/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-portuguese-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-beaten-by-renault-teammate-esteban-ocon-results-standings/news-story/b41dd93ea9c6de2b7194e0258d9625e4|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2020|Emilia Romagna}}, Ricciardo again impressed with fifth in qualifying.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo sets sights on Gasly's P4 in critical start at Imola|date=31 October 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-sets-sights-on-gaslys-p4-in-critical-start-at-imola.5oQnwZNlq3aNndsd8qnWqt|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=1 November 2020|title=Daniel Ricciardo does a shoey with Lewis Hamilton on Imola podium|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-02/daniel-ricciardo-third-emilia-f1-grand-prix-mercedes-record/12837310|access-date=15 September 2021|website=www.abc.net.au|language=en-AU|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024110/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-02/daniel-ricciardo-third-emilia-f1-grand-prix-mercedes-record/12837310|url-status=live}} From there, he overtook Pierre Gasly on the first lap, before being overcut by Pérez after being stuck behind traffic. However, a tyre failure and the retirement of Verstappen and a strategy error by Pérez's team Racing Point allowed him to finish in third place, collecting his second podium finish for Renault.{{Cite web|date=2 November 2020|title=Ricciardo seals second Renault podium as Hamilton, Mercedes make F1 history|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-imola-grand-prix-live-daniel-ricciardo-start-time-free-stream-emilia-romagna-gp-grid-weather-updates/news-story/7c8353f2f72f9f637994cb833fd56427|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024109/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-imola-grand-prix-live-daniel-ricciardo-start-time-free-stream-emilia-romagna-gp-grid-weather-updates/news-story/7c8353f2f72f9f637994cb833fd56427|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2020|Turkish}}, Ricciardo started fifth again,{{Cite web|title=Seventh-place Ocon hoped for thunderstorms after briefly topping Q1 with 'lap of the season|date=14 November 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/seventh-place-ocon-hoped-for-thunderstorms-after-briefly-topping-q1-with-lap.5hs2O3EdeqOVJjhgW082PQ|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo lost positions as his teammate Ocon spun, with Ricciardo spinning on his own as well late in the race. He eventually finished the race in tenth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo blames 'too good' start for Ocon contact in Turn 1 'disaster'|date=16 November 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-blames-too-good-start-for-ocon-contact-in-turn-1-disaster.1wWB86iM32t9PyGiAxvQjp|access-date=21 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

In the {{F1 GP|2020|Bahrain}}, he started sixth and overtook Valtteri Bottas on the first lap.{{Cite web|title=Ocon says 'the car felt awesome' as Renault qualify P6 and P7, just 0.002s apart in Bahrain|date=28 November 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ocon-says-the-car-felt-awesome-as-renault-qualify-p6-and-p7-just-0-002s.2f1KbuOxqWg9B1TnBLV6IV|access-date=22 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} However, following a red flag, he had a poor second start, which dropped him down to tenth place. He eventually moved up to seventh place.{{Cite web|date=6 December 2020|title=Ricciardo dirty over podium-costing Renault call in 'scrappy race'|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-sakhir-grand-prix-bahrain-results-finishing-order-daniel-ricciardo-fifth-points-standings-highlights-video/news-story/2d113a4704080ca0c2bffdad54d6921b|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024122/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-sakhir-grand-prix-bahrain-results-finishing-order-daniel-ricciardo-fifth-points-standings-highlights-video/news-story/2d113a4704080ca0c2bffdad54d6921b|url-status=live}} At the {{F1 GP|2020|Sakhir}}, after qualifying seventh, he had a chance of a podium after Charles Leclerc, Verstappen, and Pérez all collided in the first lap of the race.{{Cite web|title=‘We had top-five in us’ says Ricciardo as he prepares to go on the offensive in Sakhir GP|date=5 December 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/we-had-top-five-in-us-says-ricciardo-as-he-prepares-to-go-on-the-offensive.OiNJXoNx0EbC9blXAEGfq|access-date=22 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} But a mistimed second pit stop caused Ricciardo to be overtaken, ending the race in fifth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo gutted as mistakes cost him podium|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/sakhir-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-scrappy-race-for-renault-esteban-ocon-second/f7a2ee75-c7c3-4d59-ade5-6610d73f4d68|access-date=15 September 2021|website=wwos.nine.com.au|date=7 December 2020 |language=en|archive-date=1 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701104448/https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/sakhir-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-scrappy-race-for-renault-esteban-ocon-second/f7a2ee75-c7c3-4d59-ade5-6610d73f4d68|url-status=live}} In his final race for Renault at the {{F1 GP|2020|Abu Dhabi}}, he qualified twelfth; however, a good first stint allowed him to exit the pits in seventh place.{{Cite web|title=‘It’s all or nothing on Sunday’ – Renault drivers set to go on the attack after missing out on Q3 at Yas Marina|date=12 December 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/its-all-or-nothing-on-sunday-renault-drivers-set-to-go-on-the-attack-after.6smwGGIX4Qsf3aT8AFXNXZ|access-date=22 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He also took the fastest lap of the race on the final lap.{{Cite web|date=13 December 2020|title=Mad Max sends ominous warning in F1 finale ... but Ricciardo still gets the last laugh|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-live-blog-stream-start-time-daniel-ricciardo-how-to-watch-starting-grid-weather-forecast/news-story/8ef6253d13ade0e3f2197f9796165c8a|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024110/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2020-abu-dhabi-grand-prix-live-blog-stream-start-time-daniel-ricciardo-how-to-watch-starting-grid-weather-forecast/news-story/8ef6253d13ade0e3f2197f9796165c8a|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo ‘proud’ of final year with Renault as team claim fifth in constructors’ in season finale|date=13 December 2020|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-proud-of-final-year-with-renault-as-team-claim-fifth-in.ih5JnHLDdXxacWnvbklVf|access-date=22 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He finished in fifth place in the championship standings with 119 points, six points behind Pérez in fourth.{{Cite web|date=1 February 2021|title=2020 F1 driver rankings #5: Daniel Ricciardo · RaceFans|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/02/01/2020-f1-driver-rankings-5-daniel-ricciardo/|access-date=15 September 2021|website=RaceFans|language=en-GB|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915024110/https://www.racefans.net/2021/02/01/2020-f1-driver-rankings-5-daniel-ricciardo/|url-status=live}}

File:FIA F1 Austria 2021 Nr. 3 Ricciardo.jpg]]

After two years at Renault, Ricciardo joined McLaren for the 2021 Formula One World Championship as a replacement for Carlos Sainz Jr., who had signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari.{{Cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo joins McLaren for 2021 with Carlos Sainz off to Ferrari|url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11988015/daniel-ricciardo-joins-mclaren-for-2021-with-carlos-sainz-off-to-ferrari|access-date=15 September 2021|website=Sky Sports|archive-date=15 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915030235/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/11988015/daniel-ricciardo-joins-mclaren-for-2021-with-carlos-sainz-off-to-ferrari|url-status=live}} He partnered with Lando Norris, who was retained by the team.{{Cite web|date=14 May 2020|title=McLaren swoop for Daniel Ricciardo as Carlos Sainz replacement for 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-swoop-for-daniel-ricciardo-as-carlos-sainz-replacement-for-2021.6CgsQLN5ZasbdFg4qCjbZo.html|access-date=14 May 2020|website=Formula1.com|archive-date=16 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516143420/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-swoop-for-daniel-ricciardo-as-carlos-sainz-replacement-for-2021.6CgsQLN5ZasbdFg4qCjbZo.html|url-status=live}} He qualified sixth for his first race with the team at the {{F1GP|2021|Bahrain}}.{{Cite web|title=‘We’re where we deserve to be’ – McLaren drivers Ricciardo and Norris ‘very happy’ with P6 and P7 in Bahrain qualifying|date=27 March 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/were-where-we-deserve-to-be-mclaren-drivers-ricciardo-and-norris-very-happy.1hGiyi0Q14uKfA0YSOeG0f|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} On lap four, Pierre Gasly collided with Ricciardo, causing floor damage to his car, resulting in the loss of a considerable amount of downforce. Ricciardo was able to finish the season opener in seventh.{{Cite web|date=30 March 2021|title=Floor damage slowed Ricciardo in Bahrain|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-reveal-floor-damage-from-lap-4-contact-with-gasly-slowed-ricciardo.7LmRW89hTN6UQ3mGE4WTQE.html|access-date=30 March 2021|website=Formula1.com|archive-date=30 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210330085825/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-reveal-floor-damage-from-lap-4-contact-with-gasly-slowed-ricciardo.7LmRW89hTN6UQ3mGE4WTQE.html|url-status=live}} At the following race, the {{F1GP|2021|Emilia Romagna}}, he qualified sixth once again.{{Cite web|title=‘I effed it all up’ – Norris reveals heartbreak of track limits mistake that cost him P3 in Imola qualifying|date=17 April 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-effed-it-all-up-norris-reveals-heartbreak-of-track-limits-mistake-that.6pic2kdHvgW1roEMwuvqtm|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo moved up to fifth on the opening lap but was subsequently unable to keep pace with the top four cars in the wet conditions and was ordered to let Norris past to contend for the podium, which he did,{{Cite web |last=Doyle |first=Michael |date=18 April 2021 |title=Max Verstappen wins F1's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix after massive crash between George Russell and Valtteri Bottas |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-19/max-verstappen-wins-formula-one-emilia-romagna-grand-prix/100077408 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210418214314/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-04-19/max-verstappen-wins-formula-one-emilia-romagna-grand-prix/100077408 |archive-date=18 April 2021 |access-date=19 April 2021 |website=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |language=en-AU}} and he eventually finished the race in sixth.{{Cite web |last=Richards |first=Giles |date=18 April 2021 |title=Max Verstappen wins Emilia Romagna F1 Grand Prix after Hamilton blunder |url=http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/apr/18/max-verstappen-wins-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-after-hamilton-blunder |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210418200605/https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/apr/18/max-verstappen-wins-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-after-hamilton-blunder |archive-date=18 April 2021 |access-date=19 April 2021 |website=The Guardian |language=en-UK |issn=0261-3077 |location=Imola}} At the {{F1GP|2021|Portuguese}}, Ricciardo started from sixteenth after being shockingly knocked out during the first phase of qualifying.{{Cite web|title='Not a result I feel good about at all' – Ricciardo at a loss to explain ‘grim’ Q1 exit in Portugal|date=1 May 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/not-a-result-i-feel-good-about-at-all-ricciardo-at-a-loss-to-explain-grim-q1.3gyfZSYSMSyO3ufHn9sOJf|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He recovered to ninth during the race, after a pass on Sainz late in the race.{{cite web |title=FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN GRANDE PRÉMIO DE PORTUGAL 2021 - RACE RESULT |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1066/portugal/race-result.html |website=Formula1.com |access-date=18 May 2022 |archive-date=25 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025195213/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2021/races/1066/portugal/race-result.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=‘Get on with it and stop sulking’ – Ricciardo on how he bounced back from Q1 exit to points in Portugal|date=3 May 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/get-on-with-it-and-stop-sulking-ricciardo-on-how-he-bounced-back-from-q1.3Q5bTfL40n44q79f3M9JZS|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

At the {{F1GP|2021|Spanish}}, Ricciardo qualified seventh,{{Cite web|last=Cleeren|first=Filip|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-more-confident-in-his-mclaren-f1-car-after-mini-breakthrough/6505140/|date=9 May 2021|title=Ricciardo more confident in his McLaren F1 car after "mini breakthrough"|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Motorsport.com}} but managed to climb to fifth on the opening lap. He defended fifth from Red Bull driver Sergio Pérez until lap 45, where Pérez was able to get past at turn one. He finished sixth, marking the first time in the season he finished ahead of Norris.{{Cite web|date=10 May 2021|title=Daniel Ricciardo rips control from McLaren teammate|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-feeling-happier-after-promising-spanish-grand-prix-performance/news-story/9a803572a3926412e4d7ea0a923247ab|access-date=10 May 2021|website=news.com.au|archive-date=10 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210510002016/https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-feeling-happier-after-promising-spanish-grand-prix-performance/news-story/9a803572a3926412e4d7ea0a923247ab|url-status=live}} In the following round of the season, the {{F1GP|2021|Monaco}}, Ricciardo was eliminated in the second phase of qualifying and finished twelfth during the race after being lapped by his teammate, who finished on the podium.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo finds gap to Norris 'confusing' after worst Monaco qualifying since 2013|date=22 May 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-finds-gap-to-norris-confusing-after-worst-monaco-qualifying-since.2CHRMd240sIRHPsDOzQ4yq|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=24 May 2021|title=Ricciardo's miserable Monaco weekend|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.i-was-just-nowhere-ricciardo-happy-to-move-on-from-miserable-monaco-weekend.9JOjIcqzjYXeqnvg3wy9J.html|access-date=24 May 2021|website=f1.com|archive-date=24 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524115414/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.i-was-just-nowhere-ricciardo-happy-to-move-on-from-miserable-monaco-weekend.9JOjIcqzjYXeqnvg3wy9J.html|url-status=live}} A crash in qualifying at the {{F1GP|2021|Azerbaijan}} meant Ricciardo started the race in thirteenth,{{Cite web|title='I don't feel great, but it happens' - Ricciardo philosophical after Q2 crash in Baku|date=5 June 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/watch-ricciardo-brings-out-third-red-flag-of-baku-qualifying-after-q2-crash.6apTCD66cPk3D7EatQ51w|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} though he was able to climb up into the points during the race and finished ninth.{{Cite web|date=7 May 2021|title=Qualifying blunder ruins Azerbaijan race for Ricciardo|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/this-track-bites-disaster-robs-daniel-ricciardo-in-baku/news-story/5d0d6380be192958ccfa00082ba5b2f6|access-date=7 June 2021|website=news.com.au|archive-date=6 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606212658/https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/this-track-bites-disaster-robs-daniel-ricciardo-in-baku/news-story/5d0d6380be192958ccfa00082ba5b2f6|url-status=live}} At the {{F1GP|2021|French}}, Ricciardo finished in sixth position having held off Pierre Gasly at the end.{{Cite web |title=Norris va "discuter" avec un Ricciardo "agressif" |url=https://fr.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-discussion-ricciardo-agressif/6592747/ |access-date=12 January 2023 |website=fr.motorsport.com |date=21 June 2021 |language=fr |archive-date=12 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112125447/https://fr.motorsport.com/f1/news/norris-discussion-ricciardo-agressif/6592747/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo relishes ‘fun’ run to sixth in France, as McLaren car ‘starts to feel more like home’|date=20 June 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-relishes-fun-run-to-sixth-in-france-as-mclaren-car-starts-to-feel.5qr43FwBwPfEhsEXq3QYX7|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo qualified thirteenth at the {{F1GP|2021|Styrian}}.{{Cite web|title=‘Yesterday seems like a long time ago’ says Ricciardo, as strong Friday pace ‘vanishes’ in Styrian qualifying|date=26 June 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/yesterday-seems-like-a-long-time-ago-says-ricciardo-as-strong-friday-pace.723whKZ331boQwji4m3wBw|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} By the end of the fifth lap, he had moved up to eighth, but on lap seven he suffered a loss in power which saw him drop down to fourteenth, and he finished in thirteenth.{{Cite web|date=28 June 2021|title=Ricciardo's agonizing Styrian GP caused by engine issues|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/daniel-ricciardo-really-didnt-love-f1/|access-date=28 June 2021|website=planetf1|archive-date=28 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210628145413/https://www.planetf1.com/news/daniel-ricciardo-really-didnt-love-f1/|url-status=live}} At the {{F1GP|2021|Austrian}}, Ricciardo finished seventh after starting thirteenth.{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-mclaren-progress-austria-q2-exit/6625281/|date=4 July 2021|title=Ricciardo insists he's making progress despite latest Q2 exit|access-date=25 November 2024|website=Motorsport.com}}{{Cite web|date=7 July 2021|title=Ricciardo enjoyed race in Austria|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/07/ricciardo-some-enjoyment-back-after-really-low-first-race-austria/|access-date=7 July 2021|website=racefans.net|archive-date=7 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210707090536/https://www.racefans.net/2021/07/07/ricciardo-some-enjoyment-back-after-really-low-first-race-austria/|url-status=live}} The {{F1GP|2021|British}} saw Ricciardo qualify in seventh place, just behind his teammate.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo rues ‘missed opportunity’ after qualifying just 0.002s adrift of team mate Norris|date=16 July 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-rues-missed-opportunity-after-qualifying-just-0-002s-adrift-of.6XqoG8Cumzr3eou2aemd9S|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He finished Formula One's first-ever sprint race in sixth place after an overtaking move on Fernando Alonso in the closing stages.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says McLaren have 'work to do’ to fight Ferrari at Silverstone as he targets first 2021 top 5 finish|date=17 July 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-mclaren-have-work-to-do-to-fight-ferrari-at-silverstone-as-he.5dMX8OHCZNOIZHRgitfKju|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Starting the Grand Prix from sixth, Ricciardo benefited from Max Verstappen's retirement to finish in fifth place, after holding off Sainz in the closing laps. This was his first top five finish at McLaren.{{Cite web|date=19 July 2021|title=Ricciardo registers first top 5 with McLaren|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-relieved-to-hold-off-sainz-at-silverstone-to-register-first-top.5AvPNVVoS93TrnKybA0nHu.html|access-date=19 July 2021|website=formula1.com|archive-date=19 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210719112248/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-relieved-to-hold-off-sainz-at-silverstone-to-register-first-top.5AvPNVVoS93TrnKybA0nHu.html|url-status=live}}

The final race before the summer break, the {{F1GP|2021|Hungarian}} saw Ricciardo qualify in eleventh.{{Cite web|title=‘It felt like all I could do’ says Ricciardo, as he describes 'painful' failure to reach Q3 in Hungary|date=31 July 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/it-felt-like-all-i-could-do-says-ricciardo-as-he-describes-painful-failure.5EXwUPGHy0CnDbJ9vGEkAx|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} A chaotic start to the race, which saw seven cars eliminated, meant Ricciardo climbed to second place by the first corner, only for him to be wiped out of the race by another collision and finish the race in eleventh after picking up significant damage to his car.{{Cite web|date=2 August 2021|title=Ricciardo could have won chaotic race if not for rival's howler|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-hungarian-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-could-have-won-before-lance-stroll-charles-leclerc-crash/news-story/fcca381b7fb88064aff42d9f11a09879|access-date=2 August 2021|website=Fox Sports|archive-date=2 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210802135620/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-hungarian-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-could-have-won-before-lance-stroll-charles-leclerc-crash/news-story/fcca381b7fb88064aff42d9f11a09879|url-status=live}} Upon returning from the summer break, Ricciardo qualified fourth for the {{F1GP|2021|Belgian}} in wet conditions, ahead of his teammate who crashed out in Q3.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo happy with progress after sealing his best-ever grid slot for McLaren in Belgium|date=28 August 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-happy-with-progress-after-sealing-his-best-ever-grid-slot-for.76kIwSIYUgyFbPGsO0Y9YM|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} The race on Sunday was delayed multiple times due to torrential rain and was abandoned after two laps behind the safety car. As a result, Ricciardo was classified fourth and scored six points.{{Cite web|date=2 September 2021|title=Belgian Grand Prix abanodned after heavy rain|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-credits-f1-shutdown-for-improved-pace-as-he-looks-forward-to.5N22Jrehv28DgjJ1GuAiCh.html|access-date=2 September 2021|website=formula1.com|archive-date=2 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902123538/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-credits-f1-shutdown-for-improved-pace-as-he-looks-forward-to.5N22Jrehv28DgjJ1GuAiCh.html|url-status=live}} The following weekend at the {{F1GP|2021|Dutch}}, Ricciardo qualified in tenth, again ahead of his teammate.{{Cite web|title=‘It all came undone’: Ricciardo left scratching head as Verstappen claims stunning pole|date=5 September 2021|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-dutch-grand-prix-kimi-raikkonen-ruled-out-with-covid19-daniel-ricciardo-qualifying-news-live-how-to-watch-australia-times/news-story/895b57d079326d0ed85a5078d2c970d5|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Fox Sports|language=en}} On race day, he was denied a points finish after conceding his tenth position during the closing stages, under orders from the team, to Lando Norris, who was on fresher tyres. Nonetheless, it was a weekend where Ricciardo was the quicker of the two McLaren drivers.{{Cite web|date=6 September 2021|title=Ricciardo plays team game in Zandvoort|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-dutch-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-plays-mclaren-team-strategy-for-lando-norris-points-positions/news-story/91a04062c2e5433c9dd0e965977b9e2f|access-date=6 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|archive-date=28 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210928090321/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-dutch-grand-prix-results-daniel-ricciardo-plays-mclaren-team-strategy-for-lando-norris-points-positions/news-story/91a04062c2e5433c9dd0e965977b9e2f|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo qualified in fifth at the next race, the {{F1GP|2021|Italian}}, six thousandths of a second behind his teammate.{{Cite web|last=Kalinauckas|first=Alex|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-internal-rage-monza-qualifying-mclaren/6664668/|date=11 September 2021|title=Ricciardo left with "internal rage" after Monza F1 qualifying|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Motorsport.com}} During the sprint race on Saturday, Ricciardo gained two positions on the opening lap to finish in third position, earning one championship point. As a result of a grid penalty for Valtteri Bottas, Ricciardo started Sunday's Grand Prix on the front row.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo promises 'full attack' in Italian Grand Prix as he clinches front-row start at Monza|date=11 September 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-promises-full-attack-in-italian-grand-prix-as-he-clinches-front.33K07ZVT3GKCSvMiDjOT7s|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} This also marked the third race in a row where he had out-qualified his teammate. At the start of the race, Ricciardo got a better start than polesitter Max Verstappen and took the lead into turn one. He held off Verstappen for 21 laps, surviving a safety car restart and late pressure from Norris, whom he led home to claim his first victory for McLaren while also setting the fastest lap.{{Cite web|date=12 September 2021|title=Ricciardo takes well earned maiden victory for McLaren at Monza|url=https://jalopnik.com/daniel-ricciardo-takes-well-earned-f1-victory-at-2021-i-1847660916|access-date=12 September 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en|archive-date=12 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210912152130/https://jalopnik.com/daniel-ricciardo-takes-well-earned-f1-victory-at-2021-i-1847660916|url-status=live}} This was also the team's first win since the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix and their first one-two finish since the 2010 Canadian Grand Prix.{{Cite web|title='Deep down I never lost faith or belief' says Ricciardo after taking first win since 2018|date=12 September 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/deep-down-i-never-lost-faith-or-belief-says-ricciardo-after-taking-first-win.14fmweIUAMzIpcubxgoJiQ|access-date=27 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1GP|2021|Russian}}, Ricciardo qualified fifth on the grid, behind his teammate Lando Norris who was on pole position.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo’s penalty scare as teammate nabs shock first-ever pole; Hamilton crashes|date=26 September 2021|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2021-russian-grand-prix-at-sochi-qualifying-live-updates-news-daniel-ricciardo-results/news-story/e4afc0a796d6ceb85088d56763e1c3cc|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Fox Sports|language=en}} Despite a slow first pit stop, a late rain shower in the final few laps saw Ricciardo pit for intermediate tyres and work his way up to fourth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo pleased with P4 in Sochi but says ‘there is still some stuff missing’ as he targets pace|date=27 September 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-pleased-with-p4-in-sochi-but-says-there-is-still-some-stuff.3h6SvO78KEcjqAywbr36QU|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=27 September 2021|title=Ricciardo recovers to 4th after late switch to inters|url=https://www.racefans.net/2021/09/27/radio-messages-reveal-how-ricciardo-made-the-black-and-white-tyre-call-norris-missed/|access-date=27 September 2021|website=racefans.net|archive-date=27 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210927111858/https://www.racefans.net/2021/09/27/radio-messages-reveal-how-ricciardo-made-the-black-and-white-tyre-call-norris-missed/|url-status=live}} At the {{F1GP|2021|Turkish}}, Ricciardo was knocked out in Q1 and took an engine penalty, starting at the back of the grid.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says he needed a ‘magic wand’ to avoid Q1 exit as he aims to ‘put on a show’ from P16 in Turkey|date=9 October 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-he-needed-a-magic-wand-to-avoid-q1-exit-as-he-aims-to-put-on.5GvES3CiS9ZnDDyvkWgG9P|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo to start Turkish Grand Prix from the back after power unit change|date=10 October 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-to-start-turkish-grand-prix-from-the-back-after-power-unit-change.4bSeLQ5xiNHG6JDyM2KZDK|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} During the race, he managed to progress up to 13th, calling the race as "pretty painful".{{Cite web|date=12 October 2021|title=Ricciardo happy to move on from 'pretty painful' Turkish GP after early stop costs him in Istanbul|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-happy-to-move-on-from-pretty-painful-turkish-gp-after-early-stop.3TXqNlKbO3CHD4R3GiScSZ.html|access-date=12 October 2021|website=formula1.com|archive-date=12 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211012143932/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-happy-to-move-on-from-pretty-painful-turkish-gp-after-early-stop.3TXqNlKbO3CHD4R3GiScSZ.html|url-status=live}}

At the {{F1GP|2021|United States}}, Ricciardo qualified seventh, ahead of teammate Norris, He was then promoted to sixth place on the grid as a result of a grid penalty for Valtteri Bottas.{{Cite web|title=McLaren pair surprised to be behind Ferraris in Austin, but looking forward to being 'hunters' on Sunday|date=24 October 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/mclaren-pair-surprised-to-be-behind-ferraris-in-austin-but-looking-forward.5LGwGvWzTk2Y0OTFeFIOUM|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Overtaking Sainz on lap one following a three-way battle between himself, Sainz and Norris, he managed to hold on to fifth place, defending from Sainz and helping McLaren score crucial points in the battle for third place in the Constructors' Championship with Ferrari, while Norris finished eighth.{{Cite web|title=‘A strong defence’ was needed says Ricciardo after contact in battle with Sainz at COTA|date=24 October 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/a-strong-defence-was-needed-says-ricciardo-after-contact-in-battle-with.7DpYkLdZ6e0iW054SKvq7D|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=26 October 2021|title=Ricciardo takes fifth to cap 'overwhelming' Austin weekend|url=https://racer.com/2021/10/26/ricciardo-takes-fifth-to-cap-overwhelming-austin-weekend/|access-date=26 October 2021|website=racer.com|archive-date=26 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026190911/https://racer.com/2021/10/26/ricciardo-takes-fifth-to-cap-overwhelming-austin-weekend/|url-status=live}} At the {{F1GP|2021|Mexico City}}, Ricciardo qualified in seventh place, splitting the two Ferraris.{{Cite web|title=2021 Mexico City Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=7 November 2021|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2021/mexican-grand-prix/2021-mexico-city-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=28 November 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} Ricciardo made a blistering start and was alongside Pérez for fourth place heading into turn one. Afterwards, he had a small lockup and made contact with Valtteri Bottas at turn one, causing him to lose his front wing.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo explains why he feels ‘slightly better’ about Lap 1 Bottas collision after watching replays|date=8 November 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-explains-why-he-feels-slightly-better-about-lap-1-bottas-collision.4Kl9djqE7LiyDaMSJuUYiH|access-date=28 November 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} After a pitstop, he fell to last place and could only recover to twelfth place, while teammate Norris was able to come from the back of the grid to finish in tenth place.{{Cite web|date=9 November 2021|title=Mercedes 'livid' Ricciardo not given Mexico GP penalty|url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/mercedes-livid-ricciardo-not-given-mexico-gp-penalty/|access-date=9 November 2021|website=planetf1.com|archive-date=9 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211109130948/https://www.planetf1.com/news/mercedes-livid-ricciardo-not-given-mexico-gp-penalty/|url-status=live}} At the {{F1GP|2021|São Paulo}}, Ricciardo ran in eighth place and challenged Pierre Gasly for seventh before he had to retire with a power issue, making it his first retirement of the season.{{Cite web|date=15 November 2021|title=F1 chassis crack caused Ricciardo's Brazil GP retirement|url=https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/chassis-crack-caused-ricciardos-brazil-gp-retirement/6784354/|access-date=15 November 2021|website=us.motorsport.com|archive-date=15 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211115195440/https://us.motorsport.com/f1/news/chassis-crack-caused-ricciardos-brazil-gp-retirement/6784354/|url-status=live}}

At the {{F1GP|2021|Qatar}}, Ricciardo was knocked out in Q2, qualifying 14th,{{Cite web|title=2021 Qatar City Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=21 November 2021|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2021/qatar-grand-prix/2021-qatar-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=25 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} and could only manage 12th in the race after fuel issues hindered his opportunity to progress.{{Cite web|date=23 November 2021|title='It was painful' – Ricciardo reveals bizarre reason he was off the pace in Qatar|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.it-was-painful-ricciardo-reveals-bizarre-reason-he-was-off-the-pace-in-qatar.O7RV2nIidovWqdBj4oLUS.html|access-date=23 November 2021|website=formula1.com|archive-date=23 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211123124303/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.it-was-painful-ricciardo-reveals-bizarre-reason-he-was-off-the-pace-in-qatar.O7RV2nIidovWqdBj4oLUS.html|url-status=live}} Ricciardo managed to end his pointless streak at the penultimate race in Saudi Arabia. After qualifying in eleventh place,{{Cite web|title=Norris says he will ‘pay the price’ for using softs to reach Q3 as angry Ricciardo rues damage in qualifying|date=4 December 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-says-he-will-pay-the-price-for-using-softs-to-reach-q3-as-angry.1yqU0zG7i2o5lptjG1ywtI|access-date=25 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} he benefitted from a pit-stop during the red flag period to gain positions and finished the race in fifth place.{{Cite web|date=6 December 2021|title=Ricciardo could have fought for Saudi Arabia F1 podium without final restart|url=https://www.highwayf1.com/news/2021/12/7/ricciardo-could-have-fought-for-saudi-arabia-f1-podium-without-final-restart|access-date=6 December 2021|website=highwayf1.com|archive-date=7 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207120710/https://www.highwayf1.com/news/2021/12/7/ricciardo-could-have-fought-for-saudi-arabia-f1-podium-without-final-restart|url-status=live}} At the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi, Ricciardo managed to qualify in tenth place.{{Cite web|title=Norris keen to avoid ‘controversy’ of getting mixed up in Hamilton-Verstappen fight after qualifying P3 in Abu Dhabi|date=11 December 2021|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-keen-to-avoid-controversy-of-getting-mixed-up-in-hamilton-verstappen.6p0emczquYI9Z9lCwOH6fj|access-date=25 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He then finished 12th after he was overcut by Fernando Alonso and Pierre Gasly as a result of a virtual safety car.{{Cite web|title=2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix|date=13 December 2021|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2021/abu-dhabi-grand-prix/2021-abu-dhabi-grand-prix/|access-date=25 December 2024|website=|language=en}} He ended the season in eighth place in the drivers standings, scoring 115 points with just one podium, his race win at Monza.{{Cite web|date=15 December 2021|title=Unheard radio message reveals Ricciardo's true feelings on 'f***ed up' F1 finale|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/unheard-radio-message-reveals-ricciardos-true-feelings-on-fed-up-f1-finale/news-story/5776e587ce9e277151a517954d4a672a|access-date=15 December 2021|website=foxsports.com.au|archive-date=14 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211214231826/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/unheard-radio-message-reveals-ricciardos-true-feelings-on-fed-up-f1-finale/news-story/5776e587ce9e277151a517954d4a672a|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo missed the final day of the 2022 pre-season test in Bahrain, due to a positive COVID-19 test on 11 March.{{Cite web |title=McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo tests positive for Covid-19 – but set to be released in time for Bahrain GP |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-driver-daniel-ricciardo-tests-positive-for-covid-19.5ocJxEFaCjo8ZVK0npWRGs.html |access-date=13 March 2022 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=1 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220401022919/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.mclaren-driver-daniel-ricciardo-tests-positive-for-covid-19.5ocJxEFaCjo8ZVK0npWRGs.html |url-status=live }} He was released from isolation in time for the opening race of the season, on 20 March.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo poised to race in Bahrain GP after testing negative for Covid-19|date=16 March 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-poised-to-race-in-bahrain-gp-after-testing-negative-for-covid-19.27wD55fPpscLgqg2TpSxEs|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} In the opening season race at the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Australian qualified down in 18th,{{Cite web|title=2022 Bahrain Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=19 March 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/bahrain-grand-prix/2022-bahrain-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=26 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} and finished the race in 14th ahead of his teammate Norris in 15th, due to a lack of pace and three driver retirements.{{Cite web |title=Norris doubted McLaren would score podium in F1 2022 after Bahrain |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-doubted-mclaren-would-score-podium-in-f1-2022-after-bahrain/10230213/ |access-date=20 May 2022 |website=www.autosport.com |date=26 April 2022 |language=en |archive-date=20 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520113528/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/norris-doubted-mclaren-would-score-podium-in-f1-2022-after-bahrain/10230213/ |url-status=live }} At the {{F1 GP|2022|Saudi Arabian}}, Ricciardo qualified 12th, but was penalised three place after impeding Esteban Ocon.{{Cite web|title=2022 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=26 March 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/saudi-arabian-grand-prix/2022-saudi-arabian-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=26 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo penalised three grid places after impeding Ocon in qualifying|date=26 March 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-penalised-three-grid-places-after-impeding-ocon-in-qualifying.556sXREVEskqa3B29arUzV|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He was running in ninth following the pit stops, but he brought out the virtual safety car on lap 35 after his McLaren stopped at the pit lane exit due to an engine failure.{{Cite news |date=27 March 2022 |title=Ricciardo's great drive spoiled by engine failure as Max Verstappen wins |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-28/f1-saudi-arabia-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-retires/100943500 |access-date=20 May 2022 |archive-date=20 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520115030/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-28/f1-saudi-arabia-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-retires/100943500 |url-status=live }} At the Australian Grand Prix, Ricciardo managed to qualify in seventh place, which was his first Q3 appearance of the year.{{Cite web|title=Fourth ‘feels like pole’ says Norris, as McLaren bounce back in Australia|date=9 April 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/fourth-feels-like-pole-says-norris-as-mclaren-bounce-back-in-australia.68Old2TJ1wbZAQFihHvMlk|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He then went on to finish in sixth place behind his teammate Norris in his home Grand Prix.{{Cite web |title=McLaren Racing - 2022 Australian Grand Prix |url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2022/australian-grand-prix/2022-australian-grand-prix/ |access-date=20 May 2022 |website=McLaren |language=en |archive-date=20 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220520113528/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/2022/australian-grand-prix/2022-australian-grand-prix/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo relieved to avoid another 'painful home race' as he delivers P6 in front of Aussie fans|date=11 April 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-relieved-to-avoid-another-painful-home-race-as-he-delivers-p6-in.6FbBxs3htjIghyNMxyLniu|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified in sixth place for the sprint race on that Saturday,{{Cite web|title=Norris says 'it's a shame' qualifying ended in the gravel after bagging top 3 start for Sprint|date=22 April 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-says-its-a-shame-qualifying-ended-in-the-gravel-after-bagging-top-3.5rJOvLLdCNqGqInB0vQ6ZU|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} where he managed to maintain his position during the sprint for the race.{{Cite web|title=‘We will be a faster car tomorrow’ – Ricciardo upbeat about McLaren’s chances after Imola Sprint|date=23 April 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/we-will-be-a-faster-car-tomorrow-ricciardo-upbeat-about-mclarens-chances.6ShWBWhagicoPE08LavjIt|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} During the first lap of the race, Ricciardo collided with Carlos Sainz Jr., causing Sainz to retire from the race, which damaged Ricciardo's front wing. At the end of the race, Ricciardo finished in last place, while teammate Norris finished on the podium.{{Cite web |title=Ricciardo apologises for Sainz crash at Imola as he opens up on 'painful' Emilia Romagna GP {{!}} Formula 1® |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-apologises-for-sainz-crash-at-imola-as-he-opens-up-on-painful.4h24kGfd7uYQdKpl99DJhx.html |access-date=20 May 2022 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=19 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220519203731/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-apologises-for-sainz-crash-at-imola-as-he-opens-up-on-painful.4h24kGfd7uYQdKpl99DJhx.html |url-status=live }}

File:2022 French Grand Prix (52279041821).png]]

At the Miami Grand Prix, Ricciardo qualified 14th after a car issue during Q2. He then endured a painful and finished in 13th place after his teammate retired.{{Cite web |title=Dramatic Gasly and Norris contact brings out Safety Car in Miami GP |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.must-see-dramatic-gasly-and-norris-contact-brings-out-safety-car-in-miami-gp.IAHOnFIp5nvFv9VeTFq6U.html |access-date=20 May 2022 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=17 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220517220217/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.must-see-dramatic-gasly-and-norris-contact-brings-out-safety-car-in-miami-gp.IAHOnFIp5nvFv9VeTFq6U.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says lack of pace was ‘track specific’ after coming home outside the points in Miami|date=10 May 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-lack-of-pace-was-track-specific-after-coming-home-outside-the.3OjTZjguOTL08uy6pYvLtQ|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} After making it to Q3 and qualifying ninth for the {{F1 GP|2022|Spanish}},{{Cite web|title=2022 Spanish Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=21 May 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/spanish-grand-prix/2022-spanish-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=26 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} Ricciardo failed to score points once again, as his slow pace meant he finished twelfth.{{cite web | url=https://www.planetf1.com/news/daniel-ricciardo-sad-spanish-gp/ | title=Daniel Ricciardo admits being 'very, very slow' in 'sad' Spanish GP | date=22 May 2022 | access-date=24 May 2022 | archive-date=24 May 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524102602/https://www.planetf1.com/news/daniel-ricciardo-sad-spanish-gp/ | url-status=live }} In the build up to the Monaco Grand Prix Ricciardo was criticised for his early season performance relative to teammate Lando Norris by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown in an interview Brown gave to Sky Sports F1 stating Ricciardo's poor early season results had "not met his [Ricciardo's] or our expectations."{{cite web |title=Daniel Ricciardo: McLaren CEO Zak Brown says driver not meeting team's expectations . |url=https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12620535/daniel-ricciardo-mclaren-ceo-zak-brown-says-driver-not-meeting-teams-expectations |website=www.skysports.com |publisher=Sky Sports |access-date=24 May 2022 |archive-date=24 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524160911/https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12620535/daniel-ricciardo-mclaren-ceo-zak-brown-says-driver-not-meeting-teams-expectations |url-status=live }} There, he had a big shunt during the second practice at the Swimming Pool section,{{Cite web|title=‘We’ll be ready for tomorrow’ – Ricciardo downplays FP2 crash as Norris admits surprise at being ahead of Mercedes on Friday|date=27 May 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/well-be-ready-for-tomorrow-ricciardo-downplays-fp2-crash-as-norris-admits.5vKsSPnRVIwSOSznv6mHxy|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} before going on to qualify fourteenth the next day.{{Cite web|title=Norris revels in P5 performance in Monaco as Ricciardo explains ‘struggle’ that led to Q2 elimination|date=28 May 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-revels-in-p5-performance-in-monaco-as-ricciardo-explains-struggle.1Bmedjz8REzfTrljPj34RR|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He struggled during the race and finished in thirteenth place.{{Cite web|title='Deep down I'm disappointed' says Ricciardo as he looks to 'reset' ahead of Baku|date=31 May 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/deep-down-im-disappointed-says-ricciardo-as-he-looks-to-reset-ahead-of-baku.3WbyXggKfZmX0H6zWpoX1B|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Starting 13th for the {{F1 GP|2022|Azerbaijan}},{{Cite web|title=2022 Azerbaijan Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=11 June 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/azerbaijan-grand-prix/2022-azerbaijan-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=26 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} Ricciardo finished eighth following team orders for Norris not to pass him.{{Cite web|title=‘I could’ve finished 8th if I was more of a rebel’ says Norris – but accepts McLaren team orders were ‘fair’|date=12 June 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-couldve-finished-8th-if-i-was-more-of-a-rebel-says-norris-but-accepts.5pJy3nzLVS3CEFrsrm6ZRD|access-date=26 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He then failed to score points in the Canadian Grand Prix as he finished in 11th place, despite qualifying ninth.{{Cite web|title=2022 Canadian Grand Prix – Qualifying|date=18 June 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/canadian-grand-prix/qualifying/|access-date=27 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}}{{cite web | url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2022-daniel-ricciardo-finish-result-canadian-grand-prix-mclaren-problems-lando-norris-pit-stop-standings/news-story/6104a4103d47e06073937c424b732a28 | title=McLaren apologises as Ricciardo reveals reason he was 'out of the fight' | date=19 June 2022 | access-date=6 July 2022 | archive-date=6 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706093125/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2022-daniel-ricciardo-finish-result-canadian-grand-prix-mclaren-problems-lando-norris-pit-stop-standings/news-story/6104a4103d47e06073937c424b732a28 | url-status=live }} At the {{F1 GP|2022|British}}, Ricciardo qualified 14th and could only finish the race one place higher in 13th after a DRS failure forced him into an additional extra pit stop mid-race.{{cite web |last1=Coch |first1=Matt |title=McLaren baffled by Ricciardo's lack of pace |url=https://www.speedcafe.com/2022/07/04/mclaren-baffled-by-ricciardos-lack-of-pace/ |website=www.speedcafe.com |date=4 July 2022 |publisher=Speedcafe |access-date=4 July 2022 |archive-date=4 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704012059/https://www.speedcafe.com/2022/07/04/mclaren-baffled-by-ricciardos-lack-of-pace/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Daniel Ricciardo: 'Zero pace' in British GP down to lack of grip |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.daniel-ricciardo-zero-pace-in-british-gp-down-to-lack-of-grip.1737351731253946542.html |website=www.formula1.com |publisher=Formula One |access-date=3 July 2022 |archive-date=15 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220715202019/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/video.daniel-ricciardo-zero-pace-in-british-gp-down-to-lack-of-grip.1737351731253946542.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-something-a-bit-off-with-car-during-pretty-sad-british-gp/10333328/ | title=Ricciardo: Something "a bit off" with F1 car during "pretty sad" British GP | date=5 July 2022 | access-date=6 July 2022 | archive-date=6 July 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220706093152/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-something-a-bit-off-with-car-during-pretty-sad-british-gp/10333328/ | url-status=live }} Ricciardo then scored two ninth placed results in Austria and France.{{Cite web|title=‘We could have had P6’ says Norris, as track limits time penalty costs him in Austrian Grand Prix|date=11 July 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/we-could-have-had-p6-says-norris-as-track-limits-time-penalty-costs-him-in.3TGrwjvGntPUK8oQzruVKq|access-date=27 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Norris takes a 'lot of positives' from France despite Alpine edging ahead of McLaren in the championship|date=25 July 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-takes-a-lot-of-positives-from-france-despite-alpine-edging-ahead-of.1bqSOL95hAbiQpvSdiT14z|access-date=27 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Qualifying ninth for the {{F1 GP|2022|Hungarian}},{{Cite web|title=Norris 'very happy with fourth' after joint-best qualifying of the year in Budapest|date=30 July 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-very-happy-with-fourth-after-joint-best-qualifying-of-the-year-in.4WZAWiWaOAIZAjuItDEJ75|access-date=27 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} he even ran ahead of the Alpines following the pit stops, but eventually finished 15th having received a five-second penalty for colliding with Lance Stroll during the race.{{Cite web|title=Hungary 2022 - Championship|url=https://www.statsf1.com/en/2022/hongrie/championnat.aspx|access-date=24 July 2022|website=statsf1.com|archive-date=27 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827155841/https://www.statsf1.com/en/2022/hongrie/championnat.aspx|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=‘More lows than highs’ says Ricciardo after double contact drops him out of the points in Budapest|date=2 August 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/more-lows-than-highs-says-ricciardo-after-double-contact-drops-him-out-of.1Q1x1xQtWTvSzR7sJ2B18y|access-date=27 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

In August 2022, McLaren and Ricciardo terminated his contract a year early, by mutual agreement.{{Cite web|title=Daniel Ricciardo to leave McLaren Racing at the end of 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/team/daniel-ricciardo/daniel-ricciardo-leave-mclaren-racing-end-2022/|access-date=24 August 2022|website=mclaren.com|archive-date=24 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220824140553/https://www.mclaren.com/racing/team/daniel-ricciardo/daniel-ricciardo-leave-mclaren-racing-end-2022/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo's disappointing performances continued following the summer break at the Belgian and {{F1 GP|2022|Dutch}}s, as he failed to score points once more by finishing in 15th and 17th respectively.{{Cite web|title=Belgian GP performance ‘nothing to be proud of’ says Norris after point-less outing for McLaren at Spa|date=30 August 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/belgian-gp-performance-nothing-to-be-proud-of-says-norris-after-point-less.2oSNCIbY7hcf0HsV49DOiB|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Norris disappointed to finish in P7 behind Alonso – but praises McLaren's performance at Dutch GP|date=5 September 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-disappointed-to-finish-in-p7-behind-alonso-but-praises-mclarens.2GDlB1HRO60U8WuW9Vk6GG|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1 GP|2022|Italian}}, Ricciardo qualified eighth, but was promoted to fourth on the grid following grid penalties.{{Cite web|title='We pretty much put it all together' – Norris and Ricciardo delighted with McLaren qualifying performance at Monza|date=10 September 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/we-pretty-much-put-it-all-together-norris-and-ricciardo-delighted-with.60MB6tie1SFkl2aP2KkC5A|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Having run in the top 3 on the opening lap, he was eventually passed by the front-running cars before settling in eighth place. However, his race then concluded on lap 45 due to an oil leak.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says 'everything shut off' as he reveals disappointment at late DNF in Italian GP|date=13 September 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-everything-shut-off-as-he-reveals-disappointment-at-late-dnf.1JodTkiq8ba0ECDiSm10uJ|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo started down in 16th at the {{F1 GP|2022|Singapore}},{{Cite web|title=Norris hoping Singapore GP ‘most difficult race in the history of F1 to overtake at’ after claiming P6 on the grid|date=1 October 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/norris-hoping-singapore-gp-most-difficult-race-in-the-history-of-f1-to.1yjsgJw8Cuik4MpZ74L2uk|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} but in a race of attrition, he went on to finish in fifth place, which proved to be his best performance of the season.{{cite web |title=Embattled Ricciardo records season-best result |url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/f1-news-daniel-ricciardo-finishes-fifth-singapore-grand-prix/13726247-c8ba-4dc7-a4d9-5859d53070ff |publisher=Nine News |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=2 October 2022}} Following qualifying of the {{F1 GP|2022|Japanese}}, Ricciardo announced that he would not be on the grid for the 2023 Formula One season.{{Cite web|last=Cooper|first=Adam|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-i-wont-be-on-f1-grid-in-2023/10381493/|date=8 October 2022|title=Ricciardo: I won't be on F1 grid in 2023|access-date=8 October 2022|website=Motorsport.com|archive-date=8 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221008095719/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-i-wont-be-on-f1-grid-in-2023/10381493/|url-status=live}} Starting eleventh for that race,{{Cite web|title=2022 Japanese Grand Prix – qualifying|date=8 October 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/japanese-grand-prix/2022-japanese-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=28 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} Ricciardo finished the wet race in the same position.{{Cite web|title='It's what we've got to settle for' – McLaren drivers upbeat despite solitary point for team in Japan|date=11 October 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/its-what-weve-got-to-settle-for-mclaren-drivers-upbeat-despite-solitary.76DVhtQR5t58nvL0M0MWHp|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

Another poor showing came at the {{F1 GP|2022|United States}} where he finished in 16th place.{{Cite web|title='Painful is an understatement' – Ricciardo left disappointed after 'tough' P16 outing in Austin|date=26 October 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/painful-is-an-understatement-ricciardo-left-disappointed-after-tough-p16.7Fr9BlrazDTEpAH75z5jNx|access-date=28 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the Mexico City Grand Prix, Ricciardo started 11th,{{Cite web|title=2022 Mexico City Grand Prix – qualifying|date=29 October 2022|url=https://www.mclaren.com/racing/formula-1/2022/mexican-grand-prix/2022-mexico-city-grand-prix-qualifying/|access-date=29 December 2024|website=McLaren|language=en}} but managed to finish in seventh place after a late charge on the soft tyres. This was despite a ten-second penalty after colliding with Yuki Tsunoda on lap 42.{{cite web |title='Welcome back Daniel, we missed you': Fired up Ricciardo stuns F1 after brutal penalty |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2022-mexico-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-result-reaction-yuki-tsunoda-crash-news-updates/news-story/ec8c11a069a2437c5cbe1031bcba3200 |work=FOX Sports |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=30 October 2022}} Ricciardo was involved in another collision at the {{F1 GP|2022|São Paulo}} as he tagged Kevin Magnussen into a spin on the opening lap, before being collected by the spinning Magnussen, taking both drivers out of the race.{{Cite web|title='Lap 1 incidents are brutal' – Magnussen and Ricciardo reflect on race-ending collision in Sao Paulo|date=14 November 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/lap-1-incidents-are-brutal-magnussen-and-ricciardo-reflect-on-race-ending.1krTQZT1SBGok7X0guUZpn|access-date=29 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo was later awarded with a three-place grid drop for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo handed 3-place grid drop for final McLaren outing after Magnussen contact in Sao Paulo GP|date=13 November 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-handed-3-place-grid-drop-for-final-mclaren-outing-after-magnussen.3ZOlOOLHp34z24z2oZwIi5|access-date=29 December 2024|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He would finish the race in ninth place after fending off Sebastian Vettel in the final laps.{{cite web |last1=Doyle |first1=Michael |title=Ricciardo in the points as he farewells McLaren with one eye on Red Bull return as a reserve driver |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-11-21/daniel-ricciardo-finishes-ninth-in-final-f1-race-with-mclaren/101676478 |website=ABC News |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en-AU |date=20 November 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Polychronis |first1=Jacob |title=Daniel Ricciardo breaks down in final radio message to McLaren |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-breaks-down-in-final-radio-message-to-mclaren/news-story/2df54d6075ed94c067a58429cbb2511a |work=FOX Sports |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=21 November 2022}} Ricciardo ended the season eleventh in the Drivers' Championship with 37 points. Ricciardo's struggles to score points in 2022 were seen as factor in McLaren losing their battle with Alpine for fourth place in the Constructors' Championship with the Australian having scored 85 less points over the 2022 season than team mate Norris.{{cite web |last1=Woodhouse |first1=Jamie |title=McLaren 2022 season review: Strong recovery but an underwhelming season |url=https://www.planetf1.com/features/mclaren-2022-season-review |website=PlanetF1 |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=14 December 2022}}

Having been replaced at McLaren by his Australian compatriot Oscar Piastri for the 2023 season, Ricciardo elected to rejoin Red Bull Racing as their "third driver".{{Cite web|title=Red Bull confirm Ricciardo to return as third driver in 2023|date=23 November 2022|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-red-bull-confirm-ricciardo-to-return-as-third-driver-in-2023.6ZDdiSXXF04SrATlJHk06O.html|access-date=23 November 2022|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=29 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229111434/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-red-bull-confirm-ricciardo-to-return-as-third-driver-in-2023.6ZDdiSXXF04SrATlJHk06O.html|url-status=live}} The role saw him complete reserve driver duties, engaging in: public relations, simulator and factory work, and communications support during race weekends.{{Cite web |last=Bekking |first=Casper |date=15 December 2022 |title=F1 reserve drivers: All the back-up drivers for 2023 |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-reserve-drivers-all-the-back-up-drivers-for-2023/10411718/ |access-date=12 January 2023 |website=Autosport |language=en |archive-date=12 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112125447/https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/f1-reserve-drivers-all-the-back-up-drivers-for-2023/10411718/ |url-status=live }} Ricciardo also drove the RB19 in the Pirelli tests held in July at Silverstone after the {{F1GP|2023|British}}.{{Cite web |date=2023-07-11 |title=Ricciardo se sube al Red Bull de F1 en el test de Pirelli |url=https://es.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-prueba-red-bull-test-pirelli-silverstone-formula1/10494675/ |access-date=2023-07-11 |website=es.motorsport.com |language=es |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711152916/https://es.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-prueba-red-bull-test-pirelli-silverstone-formula1/10494675/ |url-status=live }}

After Nyck de Vries was released from his AlphaTauri seat in July 2023,{{cite web|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/alphatauri-replace-de-vries-ricciardo-2023/10494714/|first=Filip|last=Cleeren|publisher=motorsport.com|title=AlphaTauri F1 set to replace De Vries for remainder of 2023|date=11 July 2023|access-date=11 July 2023|archive-date=12 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230712095537/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/alphatauri-replace-de-vries-ricciardo-2023/10494714/|url-status=live}} Ricciardo was announced that he would fill the vacant seat, making his return to Formula One for the 2023 Hungarian Grand Prix, partnered with Yuki Tsunoda.{{cite web|url=https://scuderia.alphatauri.com/en/scuderia-alphatauri-welcomes-back-daniel-ricciardo/|title=SCUDERIA ALPHATAURI WELCOMES BACK DANIEL RICCIARDO|website=Scuderia AlphaTauri|date=11 July 2023|access-date=11 July 2023|archive-date=11 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711143644/https://scuderia.alphatauri.com/en/scuderia-alphatauri-welcomes-back-daniel-ricciardo/|url-status=live}} Christian Horner later confirmed that Ricciardo was signed as a potential replacement for Sergio Pérez at the parent team.{{cite web |last=Harrington |first=Alex |title=F1 News: Red Bull Chief Confirms Daniel Ricciardo Was Supposed to Replace This Driver |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/racing/f1briefings/news/f1-news-red-bull-chief-confirms-daniel-ricciardo-was-supposed-to-replace-this-driver-01j9505fhadtl |website=Sports Illustrated |publisher=Minute Media |access-date=1 October 2024 |date=19 December 2024}} Ricciardo qualified and finished in thirteenth position in his first race back with AlphaTauri in Hungary, following a first-lap incident that dropped him into last.{{Cite news|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-felt-good-on-first-race-back-after-finishing-13th-in-strong.1O4PSTq5SuKDM58Vo1N1oG.html|title=Ricciardo 'felt good' on first race back after finishing 13th in 'strong showing' at Hungarian GP|work=Formula 1|date=25 July 2023|access-date=28 July 2023|archive-date=26 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230726035312/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.ricciardo-felt-good-on-first-race-back-after-finishing-13th-in-strong.1O4PSTq5SuKDM58Vo1N1oG.html|url-status=live}} At the Belgian Grand Prix Ricciardo qualified 19th for the main race after breaching track limits on his final flying lap while teammate Tsunoda qualified 11th, just missing out on a Q3 spot.{{cite web |last1=McCartney |first1=Damien |title=Tiny mistake duds Ricciardo in Belgium qualifying |url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/f1-news-2023-belgian-grand-prix-qualifying-results-charles-leclerc-on-pole-after-max-verstappen-grid-penalty/63e1991f-e26b-44de-bfdb-c9579a5fc218 |publisher=Nine News |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=28 July 2023 |archive-date=29 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729004519/https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/f1-news-2023-belgian-grand-prix-qualifying-results-charles-leclerc-on-pole-after-max-verstappen-grid-penalty/63e1991f-e26b-44de-bfdb-c9579a5fc218 |url-status=live }} Ricciardo had a better performance in the sprint shootout, qualifying 11th for the shorter race and finishing 10th.{{cite web |title=Qualifying error puts brakes on Ricciardo's progress |url=https://www.grandprix.com.au/fan-zone/news/qualifying-error-puts-brakes-on-ricciardos-progress#:~:text=Ricciardo%20was%20quicker%20%E2%80%93%20and%20more,place%20with%20three%20laps%20remaining. |publisher=Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix 2025 |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=31 July 2023 |archive-date=28 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328091643/https://www.grandprix.com.au/fan-zone/news/qualifying-error-puts-brakes-on-ricciardos-progress#:~:text=Ricciardo%20was%20quicker%20%E2%80%93%20and%20more,place%20with%20three%20laps%20remaining. |url-status=live }} In the main race, Ricciardo finished 16th while Tsunoda earned a point with 10th.{{cite web |last1=Mitchell |first1=Rory |title=Ricciardo not 'too discouraged' after lacklustre Belgium GP |url=https://racingnews365.com/ricciardo-not-too-discouraged-after-lacklustre-belgium-gp |website=RacingNews365 |access-date=14 April 2024 |language=en |date=31 July 2023}}

During the second free practice of the Dutch Grand Prix, Ricciardo broke a metacarpal bone in his hand in seven places, preventing him from competing for the rest of the weekend. Liam Lawson replaced Ricciardo, making his F1 debut.{{cite news |last1=Cleeren |first1=Filip |title=Ricciardo out of F1 Dutch GP with injured hand, Lawson to sub |url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-out-of-f1-dutch-gp-with-broken-wrist/10511470/ |access-date=25 August 2023 |work=www.motorsport.com |date=25 August 2023 |language=en |archive-date=27 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230827073909/https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-out-of-f1-dutch-gp-with-broken-wrist/10511470/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Jackson |first1=Kieran |title=Daniel Ricciardo ruled out of Dutch Grand Prix |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/f1-daniel-ricciardo-liam-lawson-dutch-zandvoort-b2399573.html |access-date=25 August 2023 |work=The Independent |date=25 August 2023 |language=en |archive-date=25 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825173417/https://www.independent.co.uk/f1/f1-daniel-ricciardo-liam-lawson-dutch-zandvoort-b2399573.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/seven-fractures-red-bull-comes-clean-on-ricciardos-broken-hand/news-story/55d3a40711c48b470c4da26fd7c3d6ca |title='Seven fractures': Red Bull comes clean on Ricciardo's broken hand |date=14 September 2023 |access-date=26 September 2023 |archive-date=26 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230926200553/https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/seven-fractures-red-bull-comes-clean-on-ricciardos-broken-hand/news-story/55d3a40711c48b470c4da26fd7c3d6ca |url-status=live }} Riccardo's injury forced him to miss the next four rounds in Italy, Singapore, Japan and Qatar with Lawson replacing him for all 4 of those races but he returned for the United States Grand Prix.{{cite news |last1=Coleman |first1=Madeline |title=Daniel Ricciardo to drive in U.S. Grand Prix |url=https://theathletic.com/4960852/2023/10/13/daniel-ricciardo-us-grand-prix-return/ |access-date=16 October 2023 |work=The Athletic |date=13 October 2023 |language=en |archive-date=16 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231016172720/https://theathletic.com/4960852/2023/10/13/daniel-ricciardo-us-grand-prix-return/ |url-status=live }} There, he experienced a car return in his return, as he struggled on his way to finishing last in 15th place.{{Cite web|title=Tsunoda reveals his ‘heart attack’ moment in Austin as Tost apologises to Ricciardo for ‘car failure’|date=24 October 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/heart-attack-for-tsunoda-thanks-to-bold-strategy-call-to-net-bonus-point-at.kITfMReyVxgNOjZlYRGZQ|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo qualified a season-best fourth for the Mexico City Grand Prix.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.leclerc-takes-sensational-pole-ahead-of-sainz-and-verstappen-as-ferrari-lock.0gEgT5bhynQTLwPkA1G2r.html|title=HLeclerc takes sensational pole ahead of Sainz and Verstappen as Ferrari lock out front row in Mexico City|website=Formula1.com|date=October 29, 2023|access-date=October 29, 2023|archive-date=29 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029022752/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.leclerc-takes-sensational-pole-ahead-of-sainz-and-verstappen-as-ferrari-lock.0gEgT5bhynQTLwPkA1G2r.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says P4 grid slot ‘no fluke’ as he vows to ‘put up a fight’ in Mexico City GP|date=29 October 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-p4-grid-slot-no-fluke-as-he-vows-to-put-up-a-fight-in-mexico.7nXf9xvwaTxD1HFE87A2Vx|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He went on to finish the race in seventh position after a late attack on George Russell, giving Ricciardo his first points as well as AlphaTauri's best finish of the season.{{Cite web|title=‘It’s definitely more fun fighting at the front’ – Ricciardo eager to maintain AlphaTauri’s shock Mexico pace|date=30 October 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/its-definitely-more-fun-fighting-at-the-front-ricciardo-eager-to-maintain.6cwTVzJ6ZxB3N9ndjh0LRp|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1 GP|2024|São Paulo}}, Ricciardo made into SQ3 of the sprint shooutout and after a fierce battle with Carlos Sainz Jr. in the sprint, he narrowly missed out on points with ninth place.{{Cite web|last=Cleeren|first=Filip|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/daniel-ricciardo-f1-brazilian-gp-drs/10542946/|date=5 November 2023|title=Ricciardo "frustrated" with F1 Brazilian GP DRS zones after botched overtakes|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Motorsport.com}} In the main race, Ricciardo's rear wing was hit by a flying tyre, causing it to break. Despite successfully repairing it under the red flag, he was forced to start a lap down and was eventually classified 13th at the flag.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo and Piastri react to opening lap ‘chaos’ in Brazil as both endure frustrating race|date=7 November 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-and-piastri-react-to-opening-lap-chaos-in-brazil-as-both-endure.6gba3cmPXoEAgmsB7LzH6a|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

A tough weekend at the {{F1 GP|2024|Las Vegas}} followed where Ricciardo was only able to make up one place from his starting position to finish in 14th.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo laments 'humiliating' pace as he reflects on 'painful weekend' in Las Vegas|date=21 November 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-laments-humilating-pace-as-he-reflects-on-painful-weekend-in-las.6RySXMiUaWXN7YDELtAg1q|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Starting 15th for the {{F1 GP|2023|Abu Dhabi}}, he missed out on points once again as he was short of catching Lance Stroll for tenth by less than a second.{{Cite web|title=‘Close but no cigar’ – Ricciardo disappointed to miss out on points in Abu Dhabi but sets sights on positive 2024|date=29 November 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/close-but-no-cigar-daniel-ricciardo-disappointed-to-miss-out-on-points-in-abu-dhabi.4XlxcxXtt2VRcDOrOUkXGc|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo finished the season 17th in the drivers' standings, with the six points from Mexico the only points scored throughout the year.{{Cite web|title=2023 Driver Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2023/drivers.html|access-date=3 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en|archive-date=15 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115231058/https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2023/drivers.html|url-status=live}}

File:Daniel_Ricciardo_2024_Chinese_GP.jpg]]

AlphaTauri, which was renamed to RB for the {{F1|2024}} season,{{Cite web |title=AlphaTauri's new name for 2024 is confirmed |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.alphatauri-rebrand-confirmed-for-2024-season-as-new-team-name-revealed.4xAWHWI66d5L9mFELLGb6J.html |access-date=2024-01-24 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=24 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240124122741/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.alphatauri-rebrand-confirmed-for-2024-season-as-new-team-name-revealed.4xAWHWI66d5L9mFELLGb6J.html |url-status=live }} retained Ricciardo alongside Tsunoda.{{Cite web |title=Tsunoda and Ricciardo to race for AlphaTauri in 2024 |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-tsunoda-and-ricciardo-to-race-for-alphatauri-in-2024.4IaMzYxZMeOSG6qw1FOXJn.html |access-date=23 September 2023 |website=www.formula1.com |language=en |archive-date=23 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923040837/https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-tsunoda-and-ricciardo-to-race-for-alphatauri-in-2024.4IaMzYxZMeOSG6qw1FOXJn.html |url-status=live }} At the season-opening {{F1 GP|2024|Bahrain}}, Ricciardo qualified in 14th position.{{cite web |last1=Cleeren |first1=Filip |title=Ricciardo "grumpy" after messy Bahrain F1 qualifying |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-grumpy-after-messy-bahrain-f1-qualifying/10582151/ |publisher=Autosport |access-date=15 April 2024 |language=en |date=2 March 2024}} He finished the race in 13th place, having swapped positions with Tsunoda in an attempt to overtake Kevin Magnussen in 12th in the last six laps.{{cite web |last1=Rayson |first1=Zac |title=Ricciardo blasts 'immature' teammate over near crash … AFTER the race |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/f1-2024-bahrain-grand-prix-daniel-ricciardo-slams-yuki-tsunoda-rb-team-orders-news-teammate-drama/news-story/f01952b09b090fb45029797ba08471e7 |work=FOX Sports |access-date=15 April 2024 |language=en |date=2 March 2024}} At the {{F1 GP|2024|Saudi Arabian}}, Ricciardo faced a disappointing weekend, qualifying in 14th and finishing the race in 16th, including spinning on his own on the last lap.{{cite web |last1=Cleeren |first1=Filip |title=Ricciardo labels F1 Saudi Arabian GP Q2 elimination a 'mystery' |url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2024/03/09/ricciardo-labels-f1-saudi-arabian-gp-q2-elimination-a-mystery/ |publisher=Motorsport Week |access-date=15 April 2024 |date=9 March 2024}}{{cite web |title='Very odd': Embarrassing moment sums up Ricciardo woes as rival makes statement F1 seat battle |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/motorsport/formula-one/very-odd-embarrassing-moment-sums-up-ricciardo-woes-as-rival-makes-statement-f1-seat-battle/news-story/20467eb80b23386513dbc933f2f6a8c6 |website=FOX Sports |publisher=news.com.au |access-date=15 April 2024 |language=en |date=9 March 2024}} At the {{F1 GP|2024|Australian}}, Ricciardo qualified in 18th position, after having his last qualifying lap deleted for exceeding track limits, marking his first Q1 elimination at his home.{{cite web |last1=Patterson |first1=Emily |title=Ricciardo's error delivers qualifying deathblow |url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/motorsport/australian-grand-prix-2024-qualifying-results-daniel-ricciardo-eliminated-in-q1-max-verstappen-pole-position-oscar-piastri-p6/53aa3366-bb09-4ba4-90d7-d8fa3e396865 |publisher=Nine News |access-date=15 April 2024 |language=en |date=23 March 2024}} Ricciardo improved in the race, finishing in 12th place.{{cite web |title=Daniel Ricciardo confident of turnaround after 12th place result at Melbourne Grand Prix |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motorsport/daniel-ricciardo-confident-of-turnaround-after-12th-place-result-at-melbourne-grand-prix/news-story/5adf852c716417023e3df5b58c249e5d?amp&nk=d3c4c178b6fcd303ee5f1623fff6ad6d-1711266306 |website=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia Sports |access-date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240324074450/https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motorsport/daniel-ricciardo-confident-of-turnaround-after-12th-place-result-at-melbourne-grand-prix/news-story/5adf852c716417023e3df5b58c249e5d?amp&nk=d3c4c178b6fcd303ee5f1623fff6ad6d-1711266306 |archive-date=24 March 2024 |language=en |date=24 March 2024}}

At the {{F1 GP|2024|Japanese}}, Ricciardo made it to 11th position in qualifying, missing Q3 by 0.055 seconds behind his teammate Tsunoda.{{cite web |last1=Moxon |first1=Daniel |title=Ricciardo sends threat to team-mate Tsunoda after 'bump' at Japanese GP |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/formula-1/ricciardo-tsunoda-japanese-gp-qualifying-32525391 |website=The Mirror |access-date=20 April 2024 |language=en |date=6 April 2024}} However, he retired on the opening lap after colliding with Alex Albon at the S-curves, leading to both drivers hitting the barriers.{{cite web |last1=Doyle |first1=Michael |title=Max Verstappen wins, Daniel Ricciardo out on lap one at Suzuka |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-07/max-verstappen-wins-formula-1-japanese-grand-prix/103306284 |website=ABC News |access-date=20 April 2024 |language=en-AU |date=7 April 2024}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo and Albon give their views on first-lap clash at Suzuka as stewards opt against further action|date=7 April 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-and-albon-give-their-views-on-first-lap-clash-at-suzuka-as.2nqBOzk91seqeBKtlkm4xE|access-date=7 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} The stewards deemed it a racing incident due to circumstances that involved the Aston Martin of Lance Stroll in the turn.{{cite web |last1=Khorounzhiy |first1=Valentin |title=Two reasons Ricciardo escaped penalty for Albon Japanese GP crash |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/daniel-ricciardo-no-penalty-f1-japanese-gp-start-crash-alex-albon/ |website=The Race |access-date=20 April 2024 |language=en |date=7 April 2024}}{{cite web |title=Ricciardo and Albon give their views on clash at Suzuka |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-and-albon-give-their-views-on-first-lap-clash-at-suzuka-as.2nqBOzk91seqeBKtlkm4xE |publisher=Formula One |access-date=20 April 2024 |language=en |date=7 April 2024}} In the first sprint race of the season in the Chinese Grand Prix, Ricciardo finished in 11th from his qualified position of 14th.{{cite web |last1=Straw |first1=Edd |title=Ricciardo's F1 breakthrough - is it real and what's behind it? |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/ricciardo-chinese-gp-breakthrough-rb-chassis/ |website=The Race |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en |date=20 April 2024}} He retired in the main race at the end of the safety car period in lap 26 after being collided in his rear-end by Lance Stroll as the two were entering turn 14.{{cite web |last1=Doyle |first1=Michael |title='He's not even looking at me': Ricciardo fumes as Stroll crash ends his race in China |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-21/formula-1-chinese-grand-prix-max-verstappen-wins/103306300 |website=ABC News |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en-AU |date=21 April 2024}} In a post-race interview, Ricciardo criticised Stroll for not paying attention and taking responsibility for the collision.{{cite web |title=Ricciardo insists Stroll collision 'wasn't like a love tap' |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/wasnt-like-it-was-a-love-tap-frustrated-ricciardo-gives-verdict-after-race.cNyHbSXQgJbCox2l5RyMX |publisher=Formula One |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en |date=21 April 2024}} After the race,{{cite web |last1=Noble |first1=Jonathan |title=RB brands Ricciardo/Tsunoda Chinese GP crashes "unnecessary" |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/rb-brands-ricciardo-tsunoda-chinese-gp-crashes-unnecessary/10602080/ |website=Autosport |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en |date=23 April 2024}} Ricciardo was given a three-place grid penalty for the Miami Grand Prix after stewards found he had overtaken the Haas of Nico Hülkenberg under the safety car.{{cite web |title=Ricciardo hit with three-place grid penalty for Miami |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-hit-with-three-place-grid-penalty-for-miami-weekend-after-chinese.375ketmLgDBm2410PPAIek |publisher=Formula One |access-date=26 April 2024 |language=en |date=21 April 2024}}

In Miami, Ricciardo qualified fourth for the sprint and finished the race in his starting position, earning points for the first time in the season.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo hails ‘awesome’ second row start for Miami Sprint as he sets sights on valuable points|date=3 May 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-hails-awesome-second-row-start-for-miami-sprint-as-he-sets-sights.FXK9TzpEo351I11pbbB60|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He received plaudits during the sprint for his defence against Carlos Sainz Jr. in the Ferrari.{{cite web |title='Keep a few people quiet': Ricciardo savours his first points of the season in Miami |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/keep-a-few-people-quiet-ricciardo-savours-his-first-points-of-the-season-in-miami-20240505-p5fozb.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=2 June 2024 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240506075625/https://www.smh.com.au/sport/motorsport/keep-a-few-people-quiet-ricciardo-savours-his-first-points-of-the-season-in-miami-20240505-p5fozb.html |archive-date=6 May 2024 |language=en |date=5 May 2024}} For the main race, Ricciardo qualified in 18th due to a lack of grip,{{cite web |title=Ricciardo explains dramatic slump in Miami |url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-explains-dramatic-slump-in-miami-after-going-from-p4-in-sprint-to.3OZobnKLHlleBblL3taHph |publisher=Formula One |access-date=2 June 2024 |language=en |date=4 May 2024}} and finished in 15th position.{{cite web |last1=Clayton |first1=Matt |title=Ricciardo still buoyant after "complete contrast" |url=https://www.grandprix.com.au/fan-zone/news/ricciardo-still-buoyant-after-complete-contrast |publisher=Formula One Australian Grand Prix |access-date=2 June 2024 |language=en |date=6 May 2024}} Ricciardo progressed to Q3 for the first time at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, securing ninth on the grid.{{cite web |last1=McKern |first1=James |title=Daniel Ricciardo ruins Red Bull rival with qualifying masterclass |url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/motorsport/formula-one/daniel-ricciardo-ruins-red-bull-rival-with-qualifying-masterclass/news-story/fadcf8bdd819b7800f3c1c5f821f85eb |website=news.com.au |access-date=2 June 2024 |language=en |date=19 May 2024}} After a poor start, Ricciardo slowly dropped down the order and finished in 13th place.{{cite web |last1=Patterson |first1=Emily |title=Ricciardo rues 'smaller details' after backward step |url=https://www.nine.com.au/sport/motorsport/f1-news-2024-daniel-ricciardo-rues-poor-race-start-traffic-at-emilia-romagna-grand-prix-rb-20240520-p5jf26.html |publisher=Nine News |access-date=2 June 2024 |language=en |date=20 May 2024}} A quiet weekend followed at the {{F1 GP|2024|Monaco}} as he finished in 12th place, behind Tsunoda once again.{{Cite web|title=‘I won’t give them the time of day’ – Ricciardo delighted to hit back at criticism with top-5 qualifying in Canada|date=9 June 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-wont-give-them-the-time-of-day-ricciardo-delighted-to-hit-back-at.4sidan4oLKeZpGWzLwdf7p|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1 GP|2024|Canadian}}, amidst criticism from {{F1|1997}} World Champion Jacques Villeneuve of why Ricciardo was "still in F1",{{Cite web|last=Noble|first=Jonathan|url=https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/ricciardo-villeneuve-talking-shit-but-ive-done-some-self-therapy/10621307/|date=9 June 2024|title=Ricciardo: Villeneuve is "talking shit" but I've done some self-therapy|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Motorsport.com}} he stunned with fifth in qualifying.{{Cite web|title=‘I won’t give them the time of day’ – Ricciardo delighted to hit back at criticism with top-5 qualifying in Canada|date=9 June 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-wont-give-them-the-time-of-day-ricciardo-delighted-to-hit-back-at.4sidan4oLKeZpGWzLwdf7p|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Despite a five-second penalty for a jump start, Ricciardo earned his first Grand Prix points as he secured eighth place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo admits relief at ‘needed’ points finish in Canada as he explains jump start drama|date=10 June 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-admits-relief-at-needed-points-finish-in-canada-as-he-explains.2wfSGnHu9Ykbud1nip8JGV|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

RB struggled at the {{F1 GP|2024|Spanish}}, leading to Ricciardo suffering a Q1 exit and finishing down in 15th place.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo ‘surprised’ by Q1 exit in F1 Spanish GP qualifying|date=23 June 2024|url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2024/06/23/ricciardo-surprised-by-q1-exit-in-f1-spanish-gp-qualifying/|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Motorsport Week|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo and Tsunoda left searching for answers over RB’s major update package after Spain struggles|date=27 June 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-and-tsunoda-left-searching-for-answers-over-rbs-major-update.115NQDUBttFhzyjAbbMy82|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He barely missed out on Q3 by 0.015s at the {{F1 GP|2024|Austrian}},{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo hopes F1 Austrian GP near Q3 miss ‘will keep everyone a little quiet’|date=30 June 2024|url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2024/06/30/ricciardo-hopes-f1-austrian-gp-near-q3-miss-will-keep-everyone-a-little-quiet/|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Motorsport Week|language=en}} but he returned to the points with ninth place after an early pit stop proved successful.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo says he and RB ‘overachieved’ with ‘hard-fought’ run to P9 in Austria|date=2 July 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-says-he-and-rb-overachieved-with-hard-fought-run-to-p9-in-austria.2vajoCBcJwxnqAXN76ACJ5|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Ricciardo made it to Q3 and qualified ninth for the {{F1 GP|2024|Hungarian}},{{Cite web|title=‘I didn’t expect that!’ – Tsunoda reflects on dramatic Q3 crash in Budapest qualifying|date=20 July 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-didnt-expect-that-tsunoda-reflects-on-dramatic-q3-crash-in-budapest.UQdVsexkQtiYWcFUkU7UZ|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} but a poor pit stop strategy meant that he was stuck in traffic following the pit stops and thus dropped to 12th at the flag.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo left with ‘a lot of anger’ as he rues RB strategy call that dropped him out of the points in Hungary|date=23 July 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/ricciardo-left-with-a-lot-of-anger-as-he-rues-rb-strategy-call-that-dropped.1YfGiRWsQzYwYi6ISQV6Ze|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} At the {{F1 GP|2024|Belgian}}, Ricciardo finished in 11th place, but was promoted to the final points-paying position after the disqualification of race winner George Russell.{{Cite web|title=‘I needed to pick it up’ – Ricciardo’s ‘head held high’ after Belgian GP as he reflects on improved form|date=1 August 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-needed-to-pick-it-up-ricciardos-head-held-high-after-belgian-gp-as-he.7nfeellTEyo0ZgHPpKnKvN|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} Despite a mediocre first half of the season, RB opted to retain Ricciardo following the summer break.{{Cite web|title=Ricciardo to remain with RB amid Perez’s Red Bull F1 reprieve|date=30 July 2024|url=https://www.motorsportweek.com/2024/07/30/ricciardo-to-remain-with-rb-amid-perezs-red-bull-f1-reprieve/|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Motorsport Week|language=en}} He then finished the next three races in 13th, most notably at the {{F1 GP|2024|Italian}} where opening lap contact with Nico Hülkenberg and time penalties hampered serious chances of points.{{Cite web|title='You don’t get many second chances' – Ricciardo ‘frustrated’ with finishing outside the points in Zandvoort|date=27 August 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/you-dont-get-many-second-chances-ricciardo-frustrated-with-finishing-outside.3NxRL3PdJa4bbcrbdSdVOV|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=‘Sorry for him’ – Ricciardo sends apology to former team mate after Monza clash|date=4 September 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/sorry-for-him-ricciardo-sends-apology-to-former-team-mate-after-monza-clash.7K6wqSCToFxWBs6JCetBRn|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=2024 Azerbaijan Grand Prix - Race|date=15 September 2024|url=https://www.visacashapprb.com/int-en/2024-azerbaijan-grand-prix-race|access-date=8 January 2025|website=Visa Cashapp RB|language=en}}

At the {{F1 GP|2024|Singapore}}, speculation arose as to whether Ricciardo would be dropped from the team following the race.{{Cite web|title=‘I know how it is and how it works’ – Ricciardo reveals when his RB future will become clear as he admits uncertainty|date=19 September 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-know-how-it-is-and-how-it-works-ricciardo-reveals-when-his-rb-future-will.4svBylYRcjq87rx1OAPYO2|access-date=9 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} There, he endured a frustrating qualifying, lining up 16th on the grid.{{Cite web|title=‘That wasn’t fun’ – Ricciardo reflects on painful Q1 exit in Singapore amid speculation over his future|date=21 September 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/that-wasnt-fun-ricciardo-reflects-on-painful-q1-exit-in-singapore-amid.7iYvsgm24MseOA9vrftmlS|access-date=9 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} He finished the race in 18th place whilst setting the fastest lap on the penultimate lap, later being seen emotional post-race after admitting that "[it] could be my last Grand Prix".{{Cite web|title=‘I have to be prepared for this being it’ – Emotional Ricciardo ‘at peace’ if Singapore turns out to be final Grand Prix|date=22 September 2024|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/i-have-to-be-prepared-for-this-being-it-emotional-ricciardo-at-peace-if.5uX3POu6tQeVnKBdkXdhBw|access-date=9 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}} A few days later, Ricciardo was released by RB and was replaced by Liam Lawson at the following {{f1 gp|2024|United States}} onward.{{cite web|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/breaking-lawson-to-replace-ricciardo-at-rb-for-remainder-of-the-season.2TZRpkQAnucdPwAgudqdJ2|title=Lawson to replace Ricciardo at RB for remainder of the season|website=Formula 1.com|date=26 September 2024|access-date=26 September 2024}}{{cite web |last1=Coch |first1=Mat |title=Daniel Ricciardo F1 exit confirmed |url=https://speedcafe.com/daniel-ricciardo-f1-exit-confirmed/ |publisher=Speedcafe |access-date=27 September 2024 |language=en |date=27 September 2024}} Jake Boxall-Legge of Autosport later branded his move back to the Red Bull stable a "waste of time" once Lawson was promoted to the parent team.{{cite web |last=Boxall-Legge |first=Jake |title=Why Red Bull's Lawson pick renders its Ricciardo experiment a waste of time |url=https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/why-red-bulls-lawson-pick-renders-its-ricciardo-experiment-a-waste-of-time/10683272/ |website=Autosport |publisher=Motorsport Network |access-date=19 December 2024 |date=19 December 2024}}

Ricciardo finished the season 17th in the standings, with 12 points.{{Cite web|title=2024 Driver Standings|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/results.html/2024/drivers.html|access-date=9 January 2025|website=Formula 1|language=en}}

Ricciardo is known for his aggressive style as well as favouring a late braking manoeuvre to engineer overtakes. Ricciardo also prefers to carry more speed through the corner by making it more of a 'U' shape, utilising a little rear instability on entry to turn in, and enough grip to rotate the car mid-corner without the rear breaking away.{{Cite web |url=https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/the-key-difference-to-mclaren-that-makes-ricciardos-revival-real/ |title=The Key Difference To McLaren That Makes Ricciardo's Revival Real |website=The Race |date=30 October 2023 |first=Scott |last=Mitchell-Malm |access-date=1 November 2023 |archive-date=31 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031164303/https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/the-key-difference-to-mclaren-that-makes-ricciardos-revival-real/ |url-status=live }}

File:2021 US GP, Ricciardo.jpg|282x282px]]

Ricciardo was regarded as one of the most prominent names in Formula One,{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Luke |title=Ricciardo's return to F1 with AlphaTauri: Nothing to lose, everything to gain |url=https://theathletic.com/4683163/2023/07/11/daniel-ricciardo-return-alpha-tauri-f1/ |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=The Athletic |date=11 July 2023 |language=en |archive-date=24 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230824040150/https://theathletic.com/4683163/2023/07/11/daniel-ricciardo-return-alpha-tauri-f1/ |url-status=live }} known for his laid back nature and smile, with The New York Times describing him in 2016 saying, "If a survey could be made of the 22 Formula One drivers to establish who smiles the most, has the sunniest disposition and seems to be generally the nicest guy, Ricciardo would surely be the leader."{{cite news |last1=Mull |first1=Amanda |title=How Netflix Made Americans Care About the Most European of Sports |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/formula-1-drive-to-survive/619814/ |access-date=18 July 2023 |work=The Atlantic |date=7 September 2021 |language=en |archive-date=18 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230718130844/https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2021/10/formula-1-drive-to-survive/619814/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Spurgeon |first1=Brad |title=The Other Side of Mr. Nice Guy |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/03/sports/autoracing/the-other-side-of-mr-nice-guy.html |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=2 September 2016 |archive-date=19 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230719234543/https://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/03/sports/autoracing/the-other-side-of-mr-nice-guy.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Edmondson |first1=Laurence |title=On the water with Daniel Ricciardo |url=https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/33872490/on-water-daniel-ricciardo |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=ESPN.com |date=7 May 2022 |language=en |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711205346/https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/33872490/on-water-daniel-ricciardo |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Parkes |first1=Ian |title=Daniel Ricciardo, Mr. Smiley, Bares His Teeth on the Track |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/24/sports/autoracing/daniel-ricciardo-red-bull-f1.html |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=24 May 2018 |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711204025/https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/24/sports/autoracing/daniel-ricciardo-red-bull-f1.html |url-status=live }} His personal profile grew with the success of the reality show Drive to Survive, where he has been called "the face of the show".{{cite news |last1=Mee |first1=Lydia |title=F1's Next Daniel Ricciardo? New Face of Drive to Survive Finally Revealed |url=https://www.si.com/fannation/racing/f1briefings/news/f1s-next-daniel-ricciardo-new-face-of-drive-to-survive-finally-revealed-lm22 |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=F1 Briefings: Formula 1 News, Rumors, Standings and More |date=20 February 2023 |language=en |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711204026/https://www.si.com/fannation/racing/f1briefings/news/f1s-next-daniel-ricciardo-new-face-of-drive-to-survive-finally-revealed-lm22 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Luke |title=Ricciardo: 'Signs are pointing' to chasing F1 comeback |url=https://theathletic.com/4364974/2023/03/30/daniel-ricciardo-formula-1-comeback/ |access-date=11 July 2023 |work=The Athletic |date=30 March 2023 |language=en |archive-date=11 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230711204028/https://theathletic.com/4364974/2023/03/30/daniel-ricciardo-formula-1-comeback/ |url-status=live }} After the 2021 season, Ricciardo was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2022 Australia Day Honours for "significant service to motor sport as a competitor and ambassador, and to the community".{{cite news |title=Australia Day 2022 Honours List |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/australia-day-2022-honours-list-20220125-p59r53.html |access-date=25 January 2022 |work=Sydney Morning Herald |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=25 January 2022 |archive-date=25 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125112147/https://www.smh.com.au/national/australia-day-2022-honours-list-20220125-p59r53.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web|title=Australian Day 2022 Honors List|url=https://www.gg.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-01/ad22_gazette_-_o_of_a.pdf|access-date=26 January 2022|archive-date=26 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126045436/https://www.gg.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-01/ad22_gazette_-_o_of_a.pdf|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo is often referred to as "the honey badger" referencing his racing style, explaining how "[i]t's supposed to be the most fearless animal in the animal kingdom. When you look at it, he seems quite cute and cuddly, but as soon as someone crosses his territory in a way he doesn't like, he turns into a bit of a savage and he'll go after anything – tigers, pythons – he turns very quickly, but he's a good guy."{{cite web|date=28 January 2014|title=Daniel Ricciardo: Make way for the Honey Badger|url=http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/daniel-ricciardo-make-way-honey-badger|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151005030724/http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/article/daniel-ricciardo-make-way-honey-badger|archive-date=5 October 2015|access-date=19 March 2016|publisher=Red Bull Racing Formula One Team}}{{cite web|last=Youson|first=Matt|title=Mind Over Matter: Daniel Ricciardo|url=http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331723958741/daniel-ricciardo-mind-over-matter|access-date=21 December 2016|work=RedBull.com|archive-date=20 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170520225454/http://www.redbull.com/en/motorsports/f1/stories/1331723958741/daniel-ricciardo-mind-over-matter|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo pronounces his surname "Ricardo" ({{IPAc-en|r|ᵻ|ˈ|k|ɑːr|d|oʊ|audio=LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-Ricardo.wav}}) instead of the Italian pronunciation ({{IPA|it|ritˈtʃardo|}}, with a "ch"-sound), attributing this to the way it was usually pronounced growing up in Australia and by his family.{{Cite AV media |title=Daniel Ricciardo & Nico Hulkenberg Answer Google Most Searched Questions |via=YouTube|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GSnl0CIb3c&ab_channel=PrimeOption |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/-GSnl0CIb3c |archive-date=21 December 2021 |url-status=live|access-date=9 November 2020}}{{cbignore}}

Growing up as a fan of NASCAR Cup Series driver Dale Earnhardt, Ricciardo adopted the number 3 as his racing number in Earnhardt's honour.{{cite news|url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/11/daniel-ricciardo-dale-earnhardt-f1|title=Australian F1 driver really loves Dale Earnhardt Sr.|date=2 November 2014|last=Olson|first=Jeff|website=USA Today|access-date=15 July 2020|archive-date=15 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715093510/https://ftw.usatoday.com/2014/11/daniel-ricciardo-dale-earnhardt-f1|url-status=live}}

Ricciardo supports the Australian Football League's West Coast Eagles and was the club's number-one ticket holder in 2015 and 2016.{{cite web|last1=Beveridge|first1=Riley|title=Your AFL club's most famous supporters, from Barack Obama to Cam Newton|url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/your-afl-clubs-most-famous-supporters-from-barack-obama-to-cam-newton/news-story/03eb54659866d587cf9c2cc4b9f3d8c5|website=Fox Sports|date=29 January 2016|access-date=29 January 2016|archive-date=7 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170607232136/http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/your-afl-clubs-most-famous-supporters-from-barack-obama-to-cam-newton/news-story/03eb54659866d587cf9c2cc4b9f3d8c5|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.westcoasteagles.com.au/history/no1-ticket-holder|title=West Coast Eagles No.1 Ticket Holders|website=www.westcoasteagles.com.au|language=en|access-date=31 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731152556/http://www.westcoasteagles.com.au/history/no1-ticket-holder|archive-date=31 July 2017|url-status=dead}}

He is also a UFC fan{{Cite web|date=16 December 2019|title=F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo on MMA "It's the purest level of competition"|url=https://www.fightnewsaustralia.com/f1-driver-daniel-ricciardo-on-mma-its-the-purest-level-of-competition/|access-date=7 December 2021|website=Fight News Australia|language=en-GB|archive-date=7 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207215526/https://www.fightnewsaustralia.com/f1-driver-daniel-ricciardo-on-mma-its-the-purest-level-of-competition/|url-status=live}} and, during the course of his Formula 1 career, developed an affinity for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League.{{Cite web|title='Bills Mafia speak our language' - F1 star Daniel Ricciardo on Josh Allen, Tom Brady and his surprising NFL allegiance|url=https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32400577/bills-mafia-speak-our-language-aussie-f1-star-daniel-ricciardo-josh-allen-tom-brady-surprising-nfl-allegiance|access-date=16 October 2021|website=ESPN|date=16 October 2021 |language=en|archive-date=16 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211016131438/https://www.espn.com/f1/story/_/id/32400577/bills-mafia-speak-our-language-aussie-f1-star-daniel-ricciardo-josh-allen-tom-brady-surprising-nfl-allegiance|url-status=live}}

He supports Big Bash League team the Melbourne Stars, as childhood friend and Australian cricketer Marcus Stoinis represents the team.{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.facebook.com/7CricketAU/videos/marcus-stoinis-daniel-ricciardo/3710588268976884/ |title=Marcus Stoinis & Daniel Ricciardo {{!}} The Stoin may have crushed Daniel Ricciardo's cricket dreams back in the day 😂 The two great mates catch up for a chat 💪 {{!}} By 7Cricket {{!}} Facebook |language=en |access-date=2024-06-09 |via=www.facebook.com}}

He is in a relationship with Heidi Berger, the daughter of former F1 driver Gerhard Berger.{{Cite web |title=Meet Daniel Ricciardo's girlfriend Heidi Berger |url=https://www.who.com.au/daniel-ricciardo-girlfriend |access-date=24 April 2023 |website=Who |language=en-us |archive-date=24 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230424185520/https://www.who.com.au/daniel-ricciardo-girlfriend |url-status=live }}

• Lorenzo Bandini Trophy: 2014{{Cite web|last=Speed|date=2 September 2014|title=Ricciardo awarded F1 honour|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/breaking-news/daniel-ricciardo-awarded-the-trofeo-lorenzo-bandini-for-his-speed-success-and-attitude-in-formula-1/news-story/3f0c9359c8822e6869b7dcceba315814|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230701104451/https://www.foxsports.com.au/latest-news?nk=19d356bd302ae28513bd08ccab8521f8-1688208291|archive-date=1 July 2023|access-date=18 January 2021|website=Fox Sports|language=en-AU}}

• Laureus World Sports Award for Breakthrough Performance of the Year: 2015{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2015|title=Daniel Ricciardo BREAKTHROUGH OF THE YEAR|url=https://www.laureus.com/world-sports-awards/2015/breakthrough-of-the-year/daniel-ricciardo|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127204553/https://www.laureus.com/world-sports-awards/2015/breakthrough-of-the-year/daniel-ricciardo |archive-date=27 January 2021 |access-date=18 January 2021|website=Laureus|language=en}}
• GQ Australia Sportsman of the Year: 2014{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2014|title=GQ Australian names Men of the Year 2014|url=http://magazines.org.au/staging/news/gq-australian-names-men-of-the-year-2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129054830/http://magazines.org.au:80/staging/news/gq-australian-names-men-of-the-year-2014 |archive-date=29 November 2018 |access-date=18 January 2021|website=|language=en-US}}
• Confartigianato Motori Driver of the Year: 2014, 2018{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=1 September 2014|title=Confartigianato: torna la kermesse "dalle corse alla strada". Premi per Ricciardo e Capelli|url=https://www.mbnews.it/2014/09/confartigianato-torna-la-kermesse-dalle-corse-alla-strada-premi-per-ricciardo-e-capelli/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140908165922/http://www.mbnews.it/2014/09/confartigianato-torna-la-kermesse-dalle-corse-alla-strada-premi-per-ricciardo-e-capelli/ |archive-date=8 September 2014 |access-date=20 January 2021|website=MBNews|language=it-IT}}{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2018|title=CONFARTIGIANATO MOTORI – Il Premio Confartigianato Motori 2018 va a Daniel Ricciardo della Red Bull Racing|url=https://www.confartigianato.it/2018/09/confartigianato-motori-il-premio-confartigianato-motori-2018-va-a-daniel-ricciardo-della-red-bull-racing/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200926031129/https://www.confartigianato.it/2018/09/confartigianato-motori-il-premio-confartigianato-motori-2018-va-a-daniel-ricciardo-della-red-bull-racing/ |archive-date=26 September 2020 |access-date=18 January 2021|website=www.confartigianato.it|language=it-IT}}
• BRDC Bruce McLaren Trophy: 2013, 2014, 2016{{Cite web|last=Wilkins|first=Robert|date=3 December 2013|title=The 2013 BRDC Award winners in full|url=https://www.crash.net/f1/news/198718/1/the-2013-brdc-award-winners-in-full|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203152049/https://www.crash.net/f1/news/198718/1/the-2013-brdc-award-winners-in-full |archive-date=3 February 2021 |access-date=18 January 2021|website=Crash|language=en}}{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2014|title=British Racing Drivers' Club Awards 2014|url=http://www.brdc.co.uk/BRDC-CELEBRATES-THE-BEST-OF-BRITISH-MOTOR-SPORT-AT-2014-ANNUAL-AWARDS|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150101185823/http://www.brdc.co.uk:80/BRDC-CELEBRATES-THE-BEST-OF-BRITISH-MOTOR-SPORT-AT-2014-ANNUAL-AWARDS |archive-date=1 January 2015 |access-date=19 January 2021|website=www.brdc.co.uk}}{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2016|title=British Racing Drivers' Club Awards 2016|url=http://www.brdc.co.uk/BRDC-CELEBRATES-THE-BEST-OF-BRITISH-MOTOR-SPORT-AT-THE-2016-ANNUAL-AWARDS|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220101241/http://www.brdc.co.uk/BRDC-CELEBRATES-THE-BEST-OF-BRITISH-MOTOR-SPORT-AT-THE-2016-ANNUAL-AWARDS |archive-date=20 December 2016 |access-date=19 January 2021|website=www.brdc.co.uk}}
• BRDC Innes Ireland Trophy: 2014, 2015{{Cite web|last=Paice|first=Simon|date=9 December 2015|title=BRDC Celebrate Member Success With 2015 Awards|url=https://www.thecheckeredflag.co.uk/2015/12/brdc-celebrate-member-success-with-2015-awards/|access-date=19 January 2021|website=The Checkered Flag|language=en-GB|archive-date=6 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306055439/https://www.thecheckeredflag.co.uk/2015/12/brdc-celebrate-member-success-with-2015-awards/|url-status=live}}

• {{AUS}}
• 60px Member of the Order of Australia (2022)

• Confartigianato Motori Legend of F1 Award: 2024{{Cite web |url=https://www.confartigianato.it/2024/08/eventi-confartigianato-motori-premia-i-campioni-della-f1-e-dellartigianato/ |title=A Monza Confartigianato Motori premia i campioni della F1 e dell’artigianato |date=30 August 2024 |website=Confartigianato Imprese |access-date=7 December 2024 |lang=it}}

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

(key) (Races in bold indicate pole position; races in italics indicate fastest lap)

{{smallsup|{{dagger}}}} Did not finish, but was classified as he had completed more than 90% of the race distance.

{{smallsup|{{double-dagger}}}} Half points awarded as less than 75% of race distance was completed.

{{notelist}}

• Formula One drivers from Australia

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{refbegin}}

• {{cite book |last1=Saunders |first1=Nate |title=Daniel Ricciardo: In Pursuit of Greatness |date=2018 |publisher=Hardie Grant Books |location=Richmond, Vic |isbn=9781743794715}}

{{refend}}

{{commons category}}

• {{official website|http://www.danielricciardo.com/}}
• {{DriverDB driver|daniel-ricciardo}}
• {{IMDb name|3912020}}
• [http://www.formula1.com/teams_and_drivers/drivers/857/ Profile] at Formula1.com

{{Navboxes

|title=Daniel Ricciardo sporting positions

| list1 =

{{s-start}}

{{s-sports}}

{{s-bef|before=Jules Bianchi
(French Championship)}}

{{s-ttl|title=Formula Renault 2.0 WEC
champion|years=2008}}

{{s-aft|after=Albert Costa}}

{{s-bef|before=Jaime Alguersuari}}

{{s-ttl|title=British Formula Three Champion|years=2009}}

{{s-aft|after=Jean-Éric Vergne}}

{{s-ach|awa}}

{{Succession box|before=Piero Ferrari|title=Lorenzo Bandini Trophy|years=2014|after=Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team}}

{{succession box| title=Sir Jack Brabham Award |before=David Brabham
2012 |after=Matt Campbell
2017|years=2014}}

{{Succession box|before=Marc Márquez|title=Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year|years=2015|after=Jordan Spieth}}

{{S-end}}

{{RB Formula One Team}}

{{Scuderia AlphaTauri}}

{{McLaren}}

{{Renault F1}}

{{Red Bull Racing}}

{{STR}}

{{Hispania Racing F1 Team}}

{{Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year}}

{{British F3 champions}}

{{Formula One drivers from Australia}}

{{Authority control}}

}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ricciardo, Daniel}}

Category:1989 births

Category:Australian expatriate sportspeople in Monaco

Category:Australian Formula One drivers

Category:Australian people of Calabrian descent

Category:Australian people of Italian descent

Category:Sportspeople of Italian descent

Category:Australian people of Sicilian descent

Category:British Formula Three Championship drivers

Category:Formula 3 Euro Series drivers

Category:Formula BMW Asia drivers

Category:Formula BMW UK drivers

Category:Formula Ford drivers

Category:Formula One race winners

Category:Formula Renault 2.0 WEC drivers

Category:Formula Renault Eurocup drivers

Category:HRT Formula One drivers

Category:Italian Formula Renault 2.0 drivers

Category:Laureus World Sports Awards winners

Category:Living people

Category:McLaren Formula One drivers

Category:Members of the Order of Australia

Category:People educated at Newman College, Perth

Category:Red Bull Formula One drivers

Category:Renault Formula One drivers

Category:Racing drivers from Perth, Western Australia

Category:Toro Rosso Formula One drivers

Category:World Series Formula V8 3.5 drivers

Category:Eurasia Motorsport drivers

Category:Motaworld Racing drivers

Category:Fortec Motorsport drivers

Category:RP Motorsport drivers

Category:SG Formula drivers

Category:Carlin racing drivers

Category:Tech 1 Racing drivers

Category:ISR Racing drivers

Category:Racing drivers from Western Australia

Category:AlphaTauri Formula One drivers

Category:RB Formula One drivers

Category:21st-century Australian sportsmen