Daniel Ricciardo, the charismatic Australian Formula One driver, has built an impressive career both on and off the racetrack. As of 2024, Ricciardo has an estimated net worth of $50 million at the age of 34. Known for his iconic smile, fearless overtakes, and love for motorsports, Ricciardo is more than just a fast driver — he’s a global personality and a fan favorite across the F1 grid.
What Is Daniel Ricciardo’s Salary and How Has It Evolved Over the Years?
Daniel’s salary has varied significantly depending on the team he’s raced for. During his time at Red Bull Racing, he was earning around $6 million annually. However, in a bold move in 2018, Ricciardo signed a two-year deal with Renault worth a jaw-dropping $35 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid drivers in Formula One at the time.
After Renault, he joined McLaren in 2021. Although his stint there wasn’t as successful as hoped, it was still financially lucrative. In 2023, he made a mid-season comeback with Scuderia AlphaTauri, replacing Nyck de Vries and continuing with the team into the 2024 season.
How Did Daniel Ricciardo Get His Start in Racing?
Born on July 1, 1989, in Perth, Western Australia, Daniel Ricciardo was raised in a motorsport-loving household. His father, Joe, raced at Barbagallo Raceway, inspiring young Daniel to hit the track himself. By age 9, Ricciardo was karting with the Tiger Kart Club, and he quickly showed promise.
He stepped into competitive single-seater racing in 2005, finishing eighth in the Western Australian Formula Ford championship. From there, his journey took him to Formula Renault, where he won the 2008 Formula Renault 2.0 WEC and then the 2009 British Formula 3 Championship — key milestones that set the stage for his F1 career.
When Did Ricciardo Make His Formula One Debut?
Ricciardo made his F1 debut in 2011 with Hispania Racing, thanks to a development deal through Red Bull. He officially joined the Red Bull junior team, Scuderia Toro Rosso, the following year and raced there until 2013. In 2014, he was promoted to the main Red Bull Racing team, replacing fellow Aussie Mark Webber.
That season proved to be a breakout moment — Ricciardo won three Grand Prix races and finished third in the overall championship standings, outperforming four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. He later repeated this third-place finish again in 2016.
What Are Some of Daniel Ricciardo’s Career Highlights?
Over the years, Ricciardo has claimed eight Grand Prix wins, with memorable victories in Canada, Monaco, and Malaysia. He’s also been recognized multiple times by the British Racing Drivers’ Club, earning the Bruce McLaren Trophy in 2013, 2014, and 2016.
He received the Laureus Breakthrough Performance of the Year Award in 2015, and the same year, he picked up GQ Australia’s Sportsman of the Year honor. In 2022, he was officially recognized for his contribution to motorsport, being named a Member of the Order of Australia.
What Happened During His McLaren and AlphaTauri Years?
Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021, where he secured a spectacular win at the Italian Grand Prix — the team’s first victory in nearly a decade. However, inconsistent results and performance issues led to his departure at the end of 2022.
In 2023, Ricciardo returned to Red Bull in a third driver role but found himself back on the grid when AlphaTauri needed a replacement. Unfortunately, a crash during a practice session at the Dutch Grand Prix resulted in a hand injury and surgery. He missed a handful of races but returned for the United States Grand Prix in October. As of 2024, he continues to race with AlphaTauri.
Who Is Daniel Ricciardo Dating?
As of 2024, Ricciardo is in a relationship with Heidi Berger, daughter of former F1 driver Gerhard Berger. The couple reportedly began dating around 2019, and although they keep things fairly private, fans have caught glimpses of their relationship over the years.
Before Heidi, Ricciardo was rumored to have dated Red Bull colleague Annemarie Horbass and model Jessica Gomes, but his most public relationship was with his high school sweetheart, Jemma Boskovic, with whom he lived in Monaco until their split in 2018.
What Are Ricciardo’s Interests Outside of Racing?
Ricciardo’s love for motorsports extends beyond Formula One. He’s a longtime NASCAR fan and chose #3 as his F1 number to honor racing legend Dale Earnhardt. He’s also into the UFC, the Buffalo Bills (NFL), and is a big supporter of the West Coast Eagles in the Australian Football League. In fact, he served as their #1 ticket holder in 2015 and 2016.
In 2023, Ricciardo added another title to his name — podcast host — as he teamed up with actor Will Arnett for ESPN2’s “The Grandstand with Daniel Ricciardo and Will Arnett,” blending sports commentary with humor and entertainment.
Does Daniel Ricciardo Own Any Real Estate?
Yes, and it’s quite the property. In 2018, Ricciardo bought a luxury home in Beverly Hills for $8.75 million. The estate features five bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, a private terrace, swimming pool, and jacuzzi — a fitting retreat for a global superstar.
From karting in Perth to winning Grand Prix races across the globe, Daniel Ricciardo’s journey is a testament to hard work, charisma, and a love for speed. With a $50 million fortune and no signs of slowing down in 2024, the Honey Badger is still one of Formula One’s most beloved drivers.
