Daniel Ricciardo, primarily a Formula 1 driver but a well-known karaoke enthusiast as well, got the surprise of being told in a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live that U2 frontman Bono had compared him to himself on stage during a concert in Las Vegas.
Ricciardo’s story could be described as one of serendipity and the power of following one’s dreams. As a child, the Australian driver was a huge fan of U2, and now, one of the band’s most iconic members has returned the favor in a most unexpected way.
The Daniel Ricciardo-Jimmy Kimmel Live surprise
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During a recent concert in the brand-new Las Vegas Sphere, Bono compared Ricciardo to himself on stage. “On vocals, Daniel Ricciardo,” the U2 frontman said to the crowd, sending shockwaves and easter eggs through the sports and music worlds alike. For Ricciardo, the compliment was a dream come true.
“It was, like, one of the greatest compliments ever,” he told Jimmy Kimmel in a recent interview. “I was blown away.”
Ricciardo’s love of karaoke is well-documented. He’s been known to belt out U2 tunes in the car and at parties, and he’s even performed at karaoke bars with his F1 teammates. But even for the seasoned karaoke king, Bono’s comparison was a next-level moment. “It’s one of those moments that, like, yeah, I call them, like, little pinch-me moments,” Ricciardo said. “I guess even just people may know me or recognize me that maybe I’m a fan of. I see. And I’m like, oh, so, yeah, that’s where I’m like, oh, okay, I was meant to be fanboying you, but anyway,” he summed up.
Bono compared himself to @DanielRicciardo! pic.twitter.com/ORZhOucogV
— Jimmy Kimmel Live (@JimmyKimmelLive) November 10, 2023
Ricciardo’s comparison to Bono is more than just a flattering anecdote. It’s also a testament to the Australian driver’s unique personality and charisma. Like Bono, Ricciardo is known for his energy, his passion, and his ability to connect with people. In a sport that is often dominated by serious and stoic drivers, Ricciardo is a refreshing breath of fresh air. He’s not afraid to be himself, and he’s always up for a good time. Ricciardo’s comparison to Bono is also a sign of the growing respect that Formula One is earning from the mainstream world. Thanks to drivers like Ricciardo, the sport is reaching a wider audience than ever before.
Daniel Ricciardo’s story is one of inspiration and hope. It’s a reminder that anything is possible if you follow your dreams and stay true to yourself. Ricciardo’s comparison to Bono is a testament to his talent, his charisma, and his ability to connect with people. It’s also a sign of the growing respect that Formula One is earning from the mainstream world.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix: Shoey or not shoey? That is the question!
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is almost here, and with it comes a new way to celebrate victory: the Shoey Bar at Bellagio. As the name suggests, this pop-up bar will allow guests to drink cocktails out of MGM-branded driving shoes, just like their favorite Formula 1 drivers do on the podium.
Your drink of choice is about to get a lot more interesting.
Opening 11.16.2023 at @Bellagio.#ShoeyBar pic.twitter.com/gtXO8HrZcW
— MGM Rewards (@MGMRewards) November 8, 2023
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But is it really the same experience? For one thing, the shoes at the Shoey Bar will have a waterproof beverage liner, which means your drink won’t actually taste like victory. Plus, there’s the issue of spillage and reuse. It’s unlikely that the Shoey Bar staff will be pouring champagne directly into shoes, and even if they did, how would they clean and reuse them between guests?
And let’s be honest, how much is it really going to cost to do a shoey at the Bellagio? You’re paying for a drink and a driving shoe, after all. It’s more likely to feel like a tourist trap than a genuine celebration of victory.
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WATCH THIS STORY | Daniel Riccardo Pushed Aside as Lewis Hamilton Takes The Spotlight With Avid F1 Fan
So, is the Shoey Bar worth a visit? If you’re a big fan of Formula 1 and you’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the race, then sure. But don’t expect to have the same experience as the drivers on the podium.