Daniel Ricciardo recovering in hospital after a motorbike accident
The Formula 1 champion has allegedly broken his collarbone during a motorbike accident in Queensland
DANIEL RICCIARDO, the Australian Formula 1 legend, is apparently recovering in hospital after he suffered a motorbike accident in Queensland’s Daintree region. The 36-year-old, famous for his champagne shoeys post-race, sustained a collarbone injury and was treated at Mossman Hospital, where he was said to be in good spirits despite the setback.
The unlucky incident has occurred less than a week after Ricciardo’s first major public appearance since he stepped away from Formula 1. Speaking at Ray White’s Connect conference in Sydney, he addressed his departure from the sport and reflected on the challenges of life after racing. During his talk, Ricciardo appeared to confirm his retirement by telling the audience, “This is it.”
Ricciardo admitted that his career in motorsport had, at times, made him selfish. He said the past year had been focused on slowing down and rediscovering balance outside the sport. He described enjoying time away from the grid through activities such as hiking in Alaska and spending more time with family and friends.
Over the course of his Formula 1 career, Ricciardo became one of the sport’s most popular and charismatic figures. He secured eight Grand Prix victories, 32 podium finishes and three pole positions. Twice, in 2014 and 2016, he finished third in the drivers’ standings. He competed for teams including Red Bull, Renault and McLaren, earning a reputation as one of the grid’s most consistent performers and a fan favourite.
The Perth-born driver made his F1 debut in 2011 with HRT before moving to Toro Rosso and later Red Bull Racing, where he established himself as a front-runner with his aggressive overtaking style. After a stint at Renault, Ricciardo joined McLaren in 2021 and delivered the team’s first race win in nearly a decade at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
Ricciardo’s decision to step back from the sport followed a difficult period of mixed results, but his popularity with fans and fellow drivers never waned. Known for his upbeat demeanour and a “larrikin” of the sport, he remained one of Formula 1’s most recognisable personalities.
The accident in Queensland marks an unexpected interruption to his post-F1 life, though no further complications have been reported. At present, Ricciardo is receiving treatment and is expected to continue his recovery following the injury.
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