In a surprising twist to the unfolding drama around Max Verstappen’s looming race ban, Daniel Ricciardo has broken his silence, revealing that he signed a short-term emergency contract with Red Bull to act as backup in case the four-time world champion is suspended.

Verstappen currently sits on 11 penalty points on his superlicense—just one away from an automatic race ban. With two high-stakes Grands Prix in Canada and Austria approaching this month, Red Bull have been exploring every contingency to protect their championship campaign.

While previous reports suggested Red Bull would rely on current development talents like Liam Lawson or Arvid Lindblad, Ricciardo has now confirmed that he quietly agreed to a one-off deal to step in only if the team urgently needs him.

“It’s true,” Ricciardo told Motorsport Australia. “Red Bull approached me privately just after the Spanish Grand Prix and asked if I’d be willing to jump in on short notice. I didn’t hesitate. I owe a lot to that team, and if it means helping them during a tricky moment—yeah, I’m in.”

The Aussie’s revelation comes just as Red Bull were thought to be steering away from former drivers. But Ricciardo, who parted ways with AlphaTauri at the end of 2024, says this deal is strictly temporary, and not a full F1 return—at least not yet.

“It’s not a comeback tour… not just yet,” Ricciardo added with a grin. “But if Max gets that 12th point and they need someone with experience who knows the team and the car philosophy, I’ll be ready. I’ve stayed sharp.”

Sources close to Red Bull say the team still favors young prospects for long-term strategy, but Ricciardo’s experience and availability made him an ideal “safety net” should Verstappen be forced to sit out a weekend. FIA confirmation is not required for Ricciardo, as he still holds a valid superlicense.

FIA officials have declined to comment directly on Ricciardo’s status but reiterated that “any driver substitution must be formally declared 48 hours before the start of a Grand Prix weekend”.

With Canada fast approaching and Verstappen under intense scrutiny, fans may yet witness the emotional return of Daniel Ricciardo in Red Bull colors—even if just for one spectacular weekend.

Could the Honey Badger be back on the grid sooner than anyone expected? Stay tuned.