Ricardo's rise to the ranks of Formula 1 was as efficient as any drivers, Brazilian F3 Champion, International Formula 3000 Champion, and FIA GT series Champion. With only the top racing series in the world to conquer, he when he arrived on the Formula 1 scene in 1998 with the ex-Tyrrell British American Racing team amidst great promis of success. Yet despite his potential managed only three point finishes, all sixth place, and after the 2000 season his relationship with BAR deteriorated dramatically, especially with BAR's star driver Jacques Villeneuve, and subsequently his contract was not renewed for the 2001 season. With remaining hopes for success in F1, Ricardo joined Jordan as test driver with hopes of returning to racing by 2002.