What I’ll Miss About Daniel Ricciardo: The Smiling Assassin of F1

Daniel Ricciardo: the man, the myth, the shoey. If you’ve been following Formula 1 for a while, you know exactly what I’m talking about. For those who don’t (where have you been?), Daniel Ricciardo isn’t just another driver—he’s THE driver who brings charm, swagger, and a whole lot of laughs to the F1 grid. With confirmation that he no longer has a seat, I’m getting a little misty-eyed thinking about what I’ll miss most. Let’s take a ride down memory lane and talk about the things that make Ricciardo an absolute legend.

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1. That Iconic Grin

First things first: THE SMILE. It’s impossible to think of Ricciardo without picturing that megawatt grin that lights up the paddock. It’s not just his infectious smile—it’s the attitude that comes with it. Whether he’s had a killer race or a rough day at the track, he somehow manages to keep it light and fun. That upbeat energy? Pure gold in a sport that can be notoriously high-pressure. He’s the ultimate proof that you can be competitive without losing your cool.

2. The Legendary Shoey

Love it or hate it, the shoey is Ricciardo’s signature celebration—and let’s be real, we all low-key love it. I mean, who else could chug champagne from their sweaty race boot and make it look cool?! After a podium finish, you’d always be waiting, wondering, “Will he do it? Will he make someone else do it too?” Ricciardo turned a gross tradition into a global sensation, with even big-name celebs like Patrick Stewart joining in the fun. I’ll miss seeing who gets peer-pressured into drinking out of that boot next!

3. His Epic Overtakes

Ricciardo isn’t just about smiles and shoeys—he’s an absolute beast on the track. His daring overtakes are the stuff of legend. Remember the 2017 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, when he pulled off a stunning triple overtake like it was no big deal? If I had a dollar for every time he’s made my jaw drop with an out-of-nowhere move, I could probably buy my own F1 team. His late-braking “lick the stamp and send it” approach made him one of the most exciting drivers to watch, and let’s be honest—F1 just won’t feel the same without his fearless moves.

4. Top-Tier Banter

One of the best parts of being a Ricciardo fan is his hilarious interviews and banter. Whether he’s poking fun at other drivers, cracking jokes with journalists, or just being his goofy self, Daniel’s quick wit and fun personality shine through. Who else could make an F1 press conference feel like a comedy show? He’s always down for a laugh and never takes himself too seriously, which is exactly why fans love him. And who didn't love 'Maxiel'?!

5. The Ultimate Underdog Story

Ricciardo’s career has been a rollercoaster, from his highs at Red Bull to the challenges at Renault and McLaren. But what made him so relatable was his determination to fight back, no matter the setbacks. He’s the underdog we all rooted for, the guy who faced tough times but still came out smiling and ready to prove himself. Every time he had a rough race, we hoped that the next one would be "the one. It’s that hope, the idea that anything could happen, that made watching him race so thrilling.

6. The Honey Badger Mentality

Ricciardo’s alter ego is the "honey badger"—and it’s the perfect animal to describe him. Small but fierce, and never backing down from a fight, that’s Daniel in a nutshell. The honey badger mentality shows up every time he’s on track, racing with aggression and fearlessness that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Even when things aren’t going his way, you know he’s not giving up without a fight. That never-say-die attitude is something the F1 world will sorely miss.

7. Ricciardo’s Fan Love

It’s rare to find a driver who connects with fans the way Ricciardo does. Whether it’s sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media or interacting with fans at the track, Daniel has always been one of the most approachable and down-to-earth drivers on the grid. He genuinely cares about the people who support him, and that connection has built a fanbase that spans the globe. His absence will definitely leave a hole in the hearts of F1 fans everywhere.

8. That Unstoppable Resilience

Through all the highs and lows, Ricciardo has been a beacon of resilience. His career hasn’t always been smooth sailing, but his ability to keep his chin up, learn from the tough moments, and come back stronger is nothing short of inspiring. It’s this perseverance that’s earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike. He’s shown us that success isn’t just about winning races but about having the courage to push through challenges.

As we look to the future of F1, there’s no doubt that the grid will feel a little less bright without Daniel Ricciardo’s charm and daring presence. From his unforgettable overtakes to his signature shoey celebrations, he’s left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans. Whether he’s stepping away temporarily or for good, one thing is clear: we’ll be missing Ricciardo’s unique brand of magic, both on and off the track.

So here’s to Daniel Ricciardo—the smiling assassin, the king of banter, and the driver who reminded us that racing is about more than just winning; it’s about loving the journey.