Daniil Kvyat believes he is currently outperforming his car at Toro Rosso and doing enough to ensure he remains in Formula One beyond the end of the current season.
The Russian struggled in the early part of this season, eventually losing his race seat at Red Bull to the ever impressive Max Verstappen following several high-profile collisions with the man he replaced Sebastian Vettel.
Since the switch from Red Bull back to Toro Rosso, Kvyat has seemed very downbeat and frustrated which can be seen in his performances. He only scored four points compared to his teammate Carlos Sainz’s tally of 26 over the same period.
Despite what the points hauls suggests, Kvyat feels like he has turned a corner after finishing ahead of his teammate in two of the last three races and finishing in the points in Singapore. That is despite the team being at a disadvantage due to using a 2015 Ferrari power unit, a unit they are unable to develop.
The Russian admits he felt the pressure and struggled after moving back to Toro Rosso but off the back of recent performances, the 22-year-old feels he is back on an upward trend.
“I think I am outperforming the car at the moment, to be honest, so if this is not enough then I don’t know what is,” Kvyat told Autosport.
“I’m feeling a lot more comfortable than a couple of months ago, that’s for sure. I have to create my own comfort and it feels quite good. The start of every weekend is more enjoyable.
“Sometimes we know before coming to the race that it won’t be easy but we keep fighting and I enjoy doing my work regardless of my position. Every day is a joy.
“A few months ago, of course, I had a few doubts but now everything is clear to me. I love what I do and I want to do this as long as I can.”
Kvyat went on to admit he had no idea if he was even in the frame to retain his seat beyond this season alongside Sainz. With Red Bull’s next protege and GP2 title contender Pierre Gasly waiting in the wings, the Russian could find himself looking for a new team at a time when options are limited.
“Whenever the time comes, it comes. It will be very soon but before it happens, I don’t want to talk about it,” he said.
“At the moment, my career is in Red Bull’s hands. For a driver who has already won a few races, it’s much easier.
“It didn’t happen [for me], I have a few podiums which makes it easier of course but it’s still not a win.
“At the moment, it’s me and Red Bull discussing my future.”
