Former Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo, who was recently let go from Red Bull Racing’s junior team VCARB, was set to receive the “Keys to the City” honor in Austin during the upcoming United States Grand Prix weekend. However, his departure from the team has delayed the event. Ricciardo had a challenging 2024 Formula 1 season, struggling to score points and being overshadowed by his teammate Yuki Tsunoda, leading to his dismissal from the team after the Singapore Grand Prix. He was replaced by Liam Lawson, who had shown promise as his reserve driver.
Despite his lackluster performance on the track, Ricciardo remains a beloved figure among American fans, known for his charismatic personality and affinity for U.S. culture. His cowboy-inspired appearances and infectious enthusiasm have endeared him to many, particularly in Austin. Formula 1 photographer Kym Illman shared on Instagram about Ricciardo potentially being invited to the Circuit of the Americas for the ceremony. However, it seems unlikely that he will attend the Grand Prix this weekend due to his recent departure from VCARB. The ceremony honoring Ricciardo has been postponed as a result, with organizers planning to reschedule it for a later date.
Bobby Epstein, chairman of Circuit of the Americas (COTA), acknowledges Ricciardo’s star power and the impact he could have on an event like the United States Grand Prix. Epstein hopes for Ricciardo’s presence at the race, emphasizing the driver’s ability to engage with fans and be a meaningful part of the F1 community even when not competing. While Ricciardo may not be drawing fans solely based on his on-track performance due to his current situation, Epstein believes that the driver’s popularity in Texas could still make a significant impact off the track. He expresses a desire for Ricciardo to engage with fans, sign autographs, and interact with the community during the Grand Prix weekend.
Following Ricciardo’s ousting from VCARB, organizers of the “Keys to the City” ceremony have decided to postpone the event. The ceremony is meant to honor Ricciardo for his contribution to Formula 1 and his popularity among fans. While the event has been delayed, Ricciardo is expected to still be invited to attend and receive the ceremonial keys to Austin at a later date. Despite his recent struggles in the sport, Ricciardo’s status as a fan-favorite and his positive impact on the community are recognized and celebrated by the organizers and fans alike.
While the exact date for the rescheduled “Keys to the City” ceremony honoring Ricciardo has not been announced, there is anticipation for the event to take place in the future. The postponement of the ceremony due to Ricciardo’s departure from VCARB is seen as a temporary setback, but organizers are determined to ensure that the driver is recognized for his contributions and popularity among fans. Ricciardo’s impact both on and off the track has solidified his reputation as a beloved figure in the world of Formula 1, particularly in the United States, where his charisma and genuine connection with fans have endeared him to many.
