Ricciardo: Minimum expectation is a title assault

Daniel Ricciardo has insisted that Red Bull's minimum aim for the upcoming 2018 F1 season is to be in the title race alongside Mercedes and Ferrari, whilst providing an insight into his tactics during races, insisting “In the end you have to just pull the trigger."

The Australian is considered to be one of the most talented drivers on the circuit, but has only claimed a Grand Prix victory five times at the age of 28.

Mercedes are aiming to win their fifth constructor's championship in a row but many believe Red Bull are a major challenger to the Silver Arrows, and Ricciardo insists that being a contender is the very least that is expected.

“I still want to fight for that title,” he says. “Wanting it is one thing but just being in the fight is the minimum I would ask.”

Ricciardo is known for his swashbuckling style on the track, and can be relied upon to pounce on an overtaking opportunity should the scenario present itself, and he thinks this style is much more rewarding than just going through the motions behind other drivers.

“In the end you have to just pull the trigger,” the 28-year-old continued.

“Trust the car, trust the brakes, just go. It is a calculated but fearless approach – I am going to try and if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. I will be happier if I crash by trying than not trying and running around behind the same guy for 70 laps.

“I am in a window now where I still feel young enough to have the fearless approach, but old enough in terms of experience so that over a championship if I had the car, I could win when I could and take points when I could. In a fight I believe I have the tools to win. I believe I can get it done with the right material.”

Ricciardo's contract with Red Bull runs out at the end of the current season and there is speculation that he could jump ship to another elite team. His team boss, Christian Horner, believes it is important that Red Bull provide the tools for Ricciardo as he is currently in his best driving years.

“He is in that period of his career where he is in the purple sector,” Horner said. “Hopefully we can provide the car to realise his potential.”