DANIEL RICCIARDO could snub an immediate return to F1 thanks to a shock offer, it’s been claimed.
The beloved Australian was brutally ditched by Red Bull in September and replaced by Kiwi Liam Lawson.
Speculation over his future has been rife, with many Formula One fans believing he’ll return to the sport next season to drive for Cadillac.
But according to reports, he’s set to receive an offer to race in the Australian Supercars series and NASCAR.
Race.com claims Toyota are keen on having Ricciardo race for them in both competitions next year.
The Japanese carmaker is said to view the 35-year-old as the ideal driver for their Supras in both competitions.
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It’s also said they see Ricciardo “as someone who can drag in fans in huge numbers because of his natural charisma”.
Toyota are reportedly willing to break the bank to secure Ricciardo’s services.
Their pursuit of the former Renault and Toro Rosso star has been likened to a “blank cheque operation”.
A Toyota source reportedly told Race.news: “[Akio Toyoda] can’t see any downside with having [Ricciardo] as the face of Gazoo Racing, which really is his pet project.
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It’s unclear whether Ricciardo will be keen on racing in the Aussie Supercars series or NASCAR.
He did, however, reveal he was open to a new adventure when breaking his silence on his Red Bull departure.
He wrote on Instagram: “I’ve loved this sport my whole life.
“It’s wild and wonderful and been a journey.
“To the teams and individuals that have played their part, thank you.
“To the fans who love the sport sometimes more than me, haha, thank you.
“It’ll always have its highs and lows but it’s been fun and truth be told I wouldn’t change it. Until the next adventure.”
Source: Motorsport - thesun.co.uk
