Ricciardo Deepens Ford Ties Ahead of Red Bull's 2026 Launch

Daniel Ricciardo is set to strengthen his ties with Ford and Red Bull Racing as the spotlight returns to the Austrian team's 2026 launch. The retired Australian driver's lifestyle brand, Enchanté, has teased a new collaboration with Ford scheduled to be revealed on January 15, aligning perfectly with Red Bull's big reveal.

Why it matters:

This development highlights the enduring synergy between Ricciardo and the Red Bull family despite his departure from the cockpit. With the 2026 regulations introducing a massive shift in power unit technology where Ford plays a critical role, leveraging Ricciardo's popularity and brand helps humanize the technical partnership and keeps the fan favorite engaged with the team's narrative.

The details:

• Brand Synergy: Enchanté took to social media to hint at "Enchanté x Ford Racing," a project that promises to merge fashion with automotive heritage.
• Ricciardo's Sentiment: In an Instagram post, Ricciardo emphasized that racing was always about "fun" and creating memories. He praised Ford’s passion across diverse disciplines like F1, Dakar, and Le Mans, noting how the brand continues to find ways to enjoy motorsport.
• Post-Racing Role: After 257 Grands Prix and eight wins, Ricciardo stepped away from full-time competition in late 2025. Transitioning to an ambassador role for Ford has allowed him to maintain a presence in the paddock and the broader motorsport community.

What's next:

The joint announcement on January 15 will likely serve as a soft launch for the festivities surrounding Red Bull's 2026 car. Fans should expect a marketing push that highlights the "fun" aspect of racing, a signature trait of Ricciardo's career, as the team unveils its challenger for the new regulations.