15 Times Daniel Ricciardo Lit Up the Grid
Here's a thrilling journey through 15 unforgettable moments when Ricciardo set the Formula 1 world alight with speed, personality, and celebration.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
From his breakthrough win in Canada to iconic “shoey” celebrations, Ricciardo’s career is packed with spectacular highs. This listicle highlights the races, overtakes, and off-track charisma that made him a fan favorite. Each moment showcases why the “Honey Badger” became one of F1’s most electric personalities.
1. Canadian Launch – First F1 Win
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In 2014, Ricciardo took his first career win at the Canadian Grand Prix by passing Nico Rosberg in the final laps. It was a breakthrough moment that solidified his place in the sport. That underdog win shocked the grid and turned him into a rising star overnight.
2. Podium Presence in Austin
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Ricciardo wrapped up the season strong by finishing third at the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin. While Hamilton took the win, Ricciardo’s consistency kept him in the spotlight. It was another reminder that he could hang with the best on any track.
3. Debut Shoey at Hockenheim
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After finishing second in Germany 2016, Ricciardo celebrated with a champagne toast — drinking from his shoe. The moment was bizarre, hilarious, and unforgettable. It became a personal trademark that fans begged him to repeat.
4. Arrival in Montreal
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In 2022, Ricciardo touched down in Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix weekend. Driving for McLaren, he arrived at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve ready to take on one of the calendar’s trickiest tracks. Even off the podium, his presence still drew plenty of attention from fans and media alike.
5. Heartbreak in Monaco 2016
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Monaco should have been Ricciardo’s in 2016, but a botched pit stop cost him the race. He had the pace and pole position, but the team wasn’t ready when he came in. His silent frustration on the podium said it all.
6. Redemption in Monaco 2018
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Ricciardo returned to Monaco in 2018 with unfinished business and conquered it with a car that was already damaged. He lost power mid-race but somehow managed to hold the lead under massive pressure. It was one of the most gutsy drives of his career.
7. Gearing Up in Austin
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During practice for the 2017 U.S. Grand Prix, Ricciardo showed sharp form at Circuit of the Americas. He pushed his Red Bull to the limit, fine-tuning every corner for race day. Fans watched closely, knowing he always had a surprise up his sleeve.
8. Team Radio Antics
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Ricciardo’s radio messages were often just as entertaining as his racing. Whether joking with engineers or cracking up after wins, he brought real personality to F1’s airwaves. Fans tuned in just to hear what he would say next.
9. Back in Action in Miami
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In 2024, Ricciardo hit the track at the Miami International Autodrome during F1 practice. Now driving for RB, he raced into Turn One with trademark confidence and flair. The crowd lit up, proving he still had that spark fans loved.
10. Legendary Team‑Radio Moments
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Ricciardo’s radio chats have become legendary — funny, raw, and often a little chaotic. He cheered, joked, and even trash-talked in real time. It was F1 drama and comedy in one.
11. Saluting the Montreal Crowd
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At the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix, Ricciardo greeted fans during the drivers’ parade at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. He smiled, waved, and soaked in the cheers like a seasoned showman. Moments like these reminded everyone why he remained one of the most beloved figures on the grid.
12. Helmet Tribute to Rossi
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At Monza, Ricciardo paid tribute to MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi with a custom helmet. It was a nod to one of his racing idols and a stylish one at that. Fans of both sports loved the crossover.
13. Baku Collision with Verstappen
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In 2018, Ricciardo and teammate Max Verstappen collided in Azerbaijan, ending both their races. It was a tense and dramatic moment that sparked weeks of headlines. The fallout tested his relationship with Red Bull.
14. Charging Through Turn One
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Before Red Bull, Ricciardo impressed in the junior team Toro Rosso with a surprise podium. His raw talent and confidence stood out in an underdog car. It marked the beginning of his F1 rise.
15. Dramatic AlphaTauri Comeback
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After time away, Ricciardo made a dramatic return to the grid in 2023 with AlphaTauri. His pace, racecraft, and energy proved he still had more to give. Fans were thrilled to see the Honey Badger back where he belongs.