WATCH: Emotional Daniel Ricciardo strongly hints at final Formula 1 goodbye after Singapore GP

In an emotional post-race interview at the Singapore Grand Prix, Daniel Ricciardo, an eight-time Grand Prix winner, left fans and the Formula 1 community heartbroken as he reflected on his future in the sport. The 34-year-old Australian, speaking to Sky Sports F1, shared a vulnerable moment, hinting that his time in Formula 1 might be nearing an end.

With growing rumours of him being replaced by Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson at VCARB, Ricciardo's words resonated with fans as he opened up about his current struggles and the reality of his recent performances. Ricciardo, who returned to the F1 grid after a difficult stint with McLaren, had always hoped for a career revival, but that dream now seems to be slipping away.

He said during the interview: "I always said I don't want to come back just to be on the grid. I want to try and fight back at the front and get back with Red Bull. Obviously, it didn't come to fruition, so then I also have to ask myself the question, 'Well, then what else can I achieve?'"

Here is the video:

Danny Ric ❤️

An emotional Daniel Ricciardo speaks after the #SingaporeGP pic.twitter.com/53hD09HZ4z

— Formula 1 (@F1) September 22, 2024

Ricciardo’s raw and heartfelt words painted a picture of a driver who is coming to terms with the reality that his "fairytale ending" in Formula 1 might not happen. Despite his disappointing result, finishing 18th in Singapore, Ricciardo acknowledged his long career with pride, stating: "Thirteen or so years, and I'm proud."

Ricciardo was voted 'Driver of the Day' by fans

In a moment of bittersweet recognition, Daniel Ricciardo was voted 'Driver of the Day' by fans, an accolade that he admitted meant more than usual this time: "Typically, the Driver of the Day is not something us drivers look too much into, but today I can say it's something I'm appreciative of. That one today means a little something."

While fans are still awaiting an official announcement regarding his future, Ricciardo sounded ready to accept whatever comes next. Reflecting on his potential exit, he said: "I have to be prepared for this maybe being it. Let’s say I’m at peace with it."

Although he secured the fastest lap of the race, snatching a crucial point away from McLaren's Lando Norris in the championship fight against Max Verstappen, Ricciardo’s emotional words overshadowed his on-track performance. As fans process the possibility of his departure, the sentiment surrounding the driver is clear — Daniel Ricciardo has left a lasting impact on Formula 1, no matter when his journey concludes.