Daniel Ricciardo, Josh Allen. Getty Images (2)
In the exclusive world of elite athletes, Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen have formed an unlikely yet unbreakable bond, defying the conventional boundaries of their respective sports.
Their chance encounter at one of Ricciardo’s races in Monaco in 2019 sparked an instant connection, reminiscent of a scene from the iconic comedy Step Brothers. As Ricciardo, 35, recalled, “It was like we instantly became brothers from another mother.”
Ricciardo, promoting the new Beats short film The Legend of Ricallen, which stars himself and Allen, 28, described their relationship as a “full-blown bromance.”
The Australian racing sensation vividly remembers the moment he knew his friendship with Allen was the real deal. “I was in the midst of a racing season, and he came to visit me. It was before noon, and he downed a beer in record time. That’s when I knew he was one of us, a true friend.”
Allen, in an exclusive email to Us Weekly, playfully pleaded the fifth on the alleged beer-chugging incident, joking that Ricciardo “tells it better anyway.” He added, “I’m lucky to call Daniel a friend. He’s an awesome guy, and we always have a blast when we catch up, despite our hectic schedules.”
Despite their vastly different upbringings – Ricciardo in Australia and Allen on a farm outside Fresno, California – the two found common ground. “Sometimes, things just click,” Ricciardo explained. “We’ve been to each other’s games and races, but we’ve also spent quality time together, away from the spotlight.”
As high-profile athletes, Ricciardo acknowledged that finding friends who truly understand the pressures and expectations they face can be challenging. “But with Josh, I’ve found a kindred spirit. We can relate to each other on a deeper level.”
Their conversations aren’t always about sports, though. “We quote movies like crazy, talk about ranches, and even discuss the Kentucky Derby,” Ricciardo said, highlighting the lighter side of their friendship.
These on-screen duos turned their on-set chemistry into real-life friendships. From Mindy Kaling and B.J. Novak to Hilarie Burton and Sophia Bush, these celebrities prove that sometimes the most unlikely of friendships can bloom in the unlikeliest of places. Michelle Williams and Busy Philipps, for instance, met on the set of Dawson’s Creek. The Oscar nominee starred as Jen […]
Ricciardo and Allen’s hilarious short film, The Legend of Ricallen, premiering on July 24, showcases their goofy side as they embark on a mission to buy a horse, aptly named by combining their last names.
The film is a heartwarming reflection of their unique bond, which transcends their respective sports. As Ricciardo put it, “We’re just two goofballs living our dream and having a blast.”
Allen had such a great time filming that he’s open to exploring a movie career after his NFL days. “We’ll see what happens,” he said with a smile.
One thing is certain, though: Allen is more than ready to ride again if it means Ricciardo is by his side. “It was an absolute blast doing this with him,” Allen said. “I’d definitely be up for Round 2 in the future.”
The Legend of Ricallen, in collaboration with Beats by Dr. Dre, premieres on July 24 at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT on LegendofRicallen.com.
