Daniel Ricciardo sets lofty “top-fives” target as RB embark on new era

Daniel Ricciardo believes Visa Cash App RB should be targeting regular top five finishes during the early phase of the 2024 F1 season.

VCARB are the latest F1 team to unveil their new challenger ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Ricciardo returned to F1 in the middle of 2023 as a replacement for the Nyck de Vries.

His surprise comeback was disrupted after he sustained a wrist injury at the Dutch Grand Prix.

When he returned, Ricciardo’s best race came in Mexico, qualifying fourth before finishing seventh on race day.

The Australian believes the Faenza-outfit are set for a strong campaign given the significant changes to the team.

"There are a lot of new personnel, some big partners coming onboard,” Ricciardo told F1’s official website. "The team has always taken itself seriously, but I feel like this is another step up. It’s no longer just a platform for Red Bull Racing, it’s a time for us to fight at the front of the midfield.

"I like what’s happened, the changes that have taken place. There’s something about the team, the mindset is a bit different, kind of like a point to prove. It’s cool. It’s fun.”

"You have to aim high, but being in this sport so long, you want to remain realistic as you don’t want to end up ultimately disappointed,” Ricciardo said when asked what is possible this season.

"Top-fives should be a target and if we get into that position, maybe some podiums present themselves. Of course we want to win but, you know, let’s…I think we made steps last year, let’s make a few more steps.

"Do I think top-five results are on the table – and could they be on the table in the first half of the season? I’d like to think so."

Yuki Tsunoda generally had the edge over Ricciardo during their short stint together last year.

However, with a full pre-season under his belt, Ricciardo feels that there will be no excuses this time heading into Bahrain.

"Feeling good," he added. "I didn’t need as much of an off season as everyone else, with a short 2023. It was still nice to go home, but I didn’t need to let my hair down so much.

"It’s like a pre-season now, I had all that, I had the preparation, I had a bit of a headstart last year – so I know the team well. 

"Come Bahrain, there’s nothing left on the table. I can’t predict where we’ll finish there, but from a preparation point of view, there’s no more questions."