How Daniel Ricciardo went from a ‘shy’ teenager to one of F1’s most effervescent characters

Daniel Ricciardo is known as one of Formula One’s most likeable characters and fearsome racers.

Daniel Ricciardo is known as one of Formula One’s most likeable characters and fearsome racers. The Australian has put together a resumé that many drivers would be jealous of – an eight-time race winner who has finished on the podium 32 times, good enough for 35th on the all-time list. He has placed in the top three of the World Drivers’ Championship twice and bested the legendary Sebastian Vettel in the standings in the four-time champion’s final season at Red Bull Racing. But arguably his most impressive ability is his longevity. Ricciardo made his debut in 2011 and has raced in 14 straight F1 seasons, scoring 1,329 points across 256 races. And he’s done it all with his trademark smile spread across his face. Nicknamed the “Honey Badger” due to his amicable persona but fierce tendencies on the racetrack, Ricciardo has gone from a fresh-faced, inexperienced 21-year-old to a seasoned veteran known for being the latest of brakers and one of the bravest overtakers. Among the sport’s more popular figures, he is aware of the role that he can play in establishing a path for the next generation. “Something I realize the older I get is that I do have that platform or that ability perhaps to inspire someone else who was just like me at five, six, 10 years old, whatever it is,” Ricciardo said, sitting down exclusively with CNN Sport. “And that’s cool. You know, recognizing that, I’d love to give a kid something to aim for.”