Daniel Ricciardo Spotted with Injured Sky F1 Presenter Natalie Pinkham at Premier League Match

Recently retired F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo was seen as a surprise spectator at a Premier League match between Brentford and Newcastle United, alongside Sky F1 presenter Natalie Pinkham, who is recovering from neck surgery.

Why it matters:

Daniel Ricciardo's post-F1 career moves are keenly watched by fans, and his appearance at a Premier League game with Pinkham highlights his continued presence in the public eye outside of racing. Pinkham's recovery from surgery also explains her absence from recent F1 coverage, offering insight into the personal lives of familiar F1 personalities.

The details:

• Match Appearance: Ricciardo was photographed at the Brentford vs. Newcastle United Premier League match in London, which Brentford won 3-1.
• Pinkham's Presence: He was accompanied by Sky F1 presenter Natalie Pinkham, who had to postpone her return to F1 coverage in Brazil due to recovery from neck surgery.
  • Pinkham's absence led to Sky F1 making last-minute changes, with Simon Lazenby stepping in to cover the Sao Paulo Grand Prix from Saturday onwards.
• Close Relationship: Ricciardo and Pinkham share a close bond; Ricciardo is the godfather to Pinkham's son, Wilf. Pinkham has previously praised Ricciardo's 'kindness and compassion.'
• Ricciardo's Retirement: Ricciardo, an eight-time Grand Prix winner, recently confirmed his retirement from racing and announced a new role as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador.
  • He previously drove for Red Bull, McLaren, and their junior team, but was unable to secure a permanent seat in the senior Red Bull squad after the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.
• Ford Partnership: Ford is set to partner with Red Bull for the 2026 F1 season and beyond, with Red Bull Powertrains supplying engines to both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls.

The big picture:

Ricciardo's transition from an active F1 driver to an ambassadorial role with Ford marks a new chapter in his career. His continued visibility, even outside racing circuits, indicates his enduring popularity and connection to the broader sports world. Pinkham's recovery highlights the personal challenges faced by media figures, even as the F1 season continues its relentless schedule.

What's next:

While Ricciardo's racing days are behind him, his new role with Ford will see him focus on the Raptor brand and engage with the motorsport community in a different capacity. Pinkham is expected to return to her Sky F1 duties once fully recovered from her surgery, continuing her role as a key voice in F1 broadcasting.