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Australian Formula 1 star Daniel Ricciardo has revealed his retirement dreams, which are as breathtaking as his racing career. Born in Western Australia, Ricciardo has set his sights on the Margaret River region as his potential future home, captivated by its natural beauty and tranquil environment. In a candid moment, during a recent road trip through the area with childhood friend Blake Mills, Ricciardo said, “I could genuinely see myself retiring there one day. ”

The South West of Western Australia, particularly Margaret River, offers a stunning blend of tall Karri forests, pristine beaches, and massive surf waves that draw world-class surfers. “It’s like whatever weight you carry, that weight just lightens when you’re in some of these places,” Ricciardo shared. “Margaret River is that place for me. You’ve got these calm, pristine beaches but then beyond, massive waves crash at the reef. It’s just everything about it that I love.”

Ricciardo’s Return to His Roots

In partnership with Western Australia’s tourism board, Ricciardo embarked on a new road trip that serves as the second chapter of the state’s Drive the Dream campaign. The campaign launched today showcases the beauty of Western Australia as an ideal destination for self-drive holidays. The cinematic short film highlights unscripted, authentic moments between Ricciardo and Mills as they journey through the Margaret River Region and beyond.

This follows the highly successful 2023 Drive the Dream campaign, where Ricciardo explored the Coral Coast Highway, travelling from Perth to Exmouth. In this latest instalment, the focus shifts south, taking viewers on a scenic journey through WA’s premium wine region and the surrounding Southwest landscapes.

Ricciardo’s emotional connection to his home state is evident throughout the campaign. “I’ve made a lot of second homes around the world over the years, with Europe being a big part of that. But home is still Western Australia for me,” Ricciardo said. “It’s where I still get that flood of nostalgia and those memories. It’s the place that still makes me smile.”

A High-Yield Tourism Campaign

Western Australia’s tourism board has strategically aligned this campaign with its Walking On A Dream brand, aiming to position WA as a premier destination for road trips. The campaign mainly targets high-yield travellers. The cinematic visuals of WA’s natural beauty and Ricciardo’s authentic connection to the region are expected to appeal to an international audience.

Key activities from Ricciardo’s trip include surfing, mountain biking, and indulging in Margaret River’s acclaimed food and wine scene. One of the highlights of his journey was staying at Heyscape Tiny Cabins, a secluded retreat that allowed him to connect with nature on a deeper level. Describing the experience, Ricciardo said, “It’s like you’ve got your own little cabin on your own little farm. Before going to sleep, you just look up, and the sky is littered with stars. It’s so peaceful, you can hear crickets and frogs. You feel very much at one with nature.”

Expanding WA’s Global Reach

The campaign’s reach is global, with the short film translated into eight languages. Over the next 12 months, the film will roll out across key international markets, ensuring that travellers worldwide will experience the allure of Western Australia’s vast landscapes and inviting atmosphere.

With its breathtaking beauty, diverse activities, and serene environment, the Margaret River region is poised to attract more visitors, particularly those looking for an adventure-filled yet peaceful escape. For Daniel Ricciardo, this stunning part of Australia holds more than just memories—it promises a tranquil retirement in one of the world’s most picturesque regions.