Former Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo has been hospitalised following a bike accident in northern Queensland on Thursday.
The 36-year-old Australian sustained a collarbone injury whilst riding a dirt bike through the Daintree region.
Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo has been hospitalised after a motorbike accident
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The incident occurred just days after Ricciardo made his first public appearance since departing F1, when he spoke at a property conference on the Gold Coast on Monday.
Details surrounding the motorcycle mishap remain limited, with the precise circumstances of how the accident unfolded yet to emerge.
Medical staff reported that Ricciardo maintained positive spirits throughout his treatment at the Queensland facility.
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The Australian retired from Formula 1 last year
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The former Red Bull driver had been enjoying time in his homeland after stepping away from the sport.
“I’ve been trying to figure out who I am other than this racecar driver,” Ricciardo told sports presenter Mel McLaughlin during Monday’s Ray White Connect conference.
The popular Australian driver had been embracing a quieter lifestyle following his departure from Racing Bulls after last year’s Singapore Grand Prix.
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During Monday’s conference appearance, Ricciardo reflected on his adjustment to life beyond racing. “Well, I haven’t been shaving my face,” he joked about his new beard. “The beard is my comfort right now.
“I lived this crazy high-speed life for so long, and this year I’ve sat into a little bit of stillness,” he explained.
Ricciardo revealed he had been travelling extensively, including a recent trip to Alaska. He also spent time in Europe playing padel with current F1 drivers Oscar Piastri and George Russell.
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The former Red Bulls racer won eight Grands Prix during his career
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The former Red Bull driver’s Formula 1 career concluded when Racing Bulls released him following the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko suggested Ricciardo had lost the “killer instinct” that characterised his earlier racing years.
Recent speculation linking him to Cadillac’s new F1 venture was dismissed by team principal Graeme Lowdon.
“If I need to convince someone, then it’s the wrong person,” Lowdon stated, effectively ruling out any potential return.
Ricciardo has expressed acceptance of his retirement, recently telling fans he was “done” with F1.
The Australian is now focusing on personal growth, acknowledging past selfishness and striving to become “a better listener” whilst appreciating family connections.