Daniel Ricciardo Named Global Ford Racing Ambassador
Ford has appointed Daniel Ricciardo as Global Ford Racing Ambassador, a move that strengthens Ford Racing’s presence across international motorsport and the performance truck market. The partnership centres on the Raptor brand and lifestyle, reflecting growing demand for off-road capability and high-performance pick-ups among Ford customers worldwide.
Ricciardo outlined his thoughts in his own words. “While my racing days are behind me, my love for anything with wheels will always remain high, and for that I am proud to be partnering with Ford to become a Global Ford Racing Ambassador.” He added, “I am going to be working closely with the Ford Racing team and specifically focus on the amazing Raptor brand and lifestyle that Raptor has become for many of Ford's customers.”
The eight-time Grand Prix winner explained why the timing feels right. “When I decided it was time to retire, I thought long and hard about finding the most authentic way to stay connected to the world of motorsports. For me, racing was always about having fun. It made me happy and created memories that will last a lifetime.”
Ricciardo’s connection with Ford runs deep. He bought a Raptor in 2017, before he even owned a home in the United States, and he later visited Dearborn after Ford announced its partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing. “We had a ton of fun and a lot of laughs,” he said of meeting senior leaders, including Jim Farley. He also toured the design department, which he described as “Damn impressive.” A subsequent trip to Cologne included time with employees, a live crash test and a Town Hall Q&A.
The ambassador role focuses on storytelling and product engagement around the Raptor line, from its off-road engineering to its community of owners. “Taking my bias for “American-made” and deep love for trucks out of the equation, Raptor is becoming a global powerhouse. I’m one of thousands of happy customers,” Ricciardo said. “Some of my favourite memories are road tripping behind the wheel of my Raptor, and I can’t wait to add to my existing Raptor ownership, plus meet the customers who are equally passionate about their vehicles.”
Ricciardo praised Ford’s approach to motorsport as a test bed for road-car technology, a theme central to the brand’s hybrid and performance programmes. Ford has built a proper business around motorsport and is using it to bring new technologies to your road cars. And nothing brings that to life better than the beloved Raptor.”
Recent imagery highlights the collaboration, featuring shots of the racer alongside a Ford Raptor and close-ups of his hand, with the “Ford Racing” tattoo visible, resting on a grille that bears a blue “Ford Racing” plate. The visuals align with the lifestyle narrative that surrounds Raptor ownership and off-road adventure.
Looking ahead, Ricciardo expects to support Ford Racing projects across disciplines. “I couldn’t be more excited for all the amazing drives ahead with Ford and for all the incredible projects Ford Racing has in its pipeline. From F1 to Dakar and from Le Mans to Bathurst, few companies have been at this for as long as you guys have.” He concluded, “From what I have seen, we have an incredible future ahead, and I am so proud to be joining the team. So, here’s to the fun, the laughs, and the memories that lie ahead.”
Daniel Ricciardo now serves as Global Ford Racing Ambassador, engaging fans and customers while showcasing how Ford channels motorsport expertise into vehicles like the Raptor for the wider automotive industry.