Ricciardo remains coy on Verstappen rivalry
Daniel Ricciardo says while he is relishing a rivalry with team-mate Max Verstappen, the four-time grand prix winner admits the pair need to focus more on pushing Red Bull forwards.
Ricciardo and Verstappen are considered to be the most exciting driver line-up on the grid, both drivers are searching for their first world championship in 2017.
The Adrian Newey designed RB13 is expected to be a front-running car, despite the team yet to show its true pace from winter testing.
Although Ricciardo is expecting to be fighting at the front end of the grid, the Australian admits a world title this season is likely to be out of reach.
“It is my target and aim to be world champion, and I will do what I can to make it happen this year, but I am not expecting it,” he said.
With Mercedes and Ferrari coming off the back of a strong pre-season, Red Bull are wary they have a tough ask to beat both teams this year.
Ricciardo adds while both he and Verstappen are keen for race victories, it’s vital they unite to put Red Bull into a winning position.
“We both want to win, we both want to beat each other, there’s no denying that,” said the 27-year-old.
“But at the same time we also have a team which is trying to build fast race cars and they rely on us not only to push the car, but give feedback and push the technology of the cars so two heads are better than one.
“We understand we are only helping ourselves if we are helping each other because then the car will be faster and give us the better chance to win.”