Daniel Ricciardo is embarking on a new chapter with the renewed RB team in 2024. Despite a promising pre-season test, Ricciardo is tempering expectations for the team’s performance this season. RB, previously known by a different name, was predicted to excel this year due to its strengthened partnership with Red Bull. The adoption of Red Bull’s rear suspension by the team allowed them to consistently score points and climb in the Constructors’ Championship standings. Ricciardo, who joined the team halfway through last year, initially expressed confidence in achieving top-five results. However, he now acknowledges that RB is still in the midfield group and has work to do to reach their goals for 2024. Ricciardo emphasizes the need for caution at the beginning of the season and recognizes that there is still room for improvement. The expectations that the VCARB 01 would be a replica of the successful RB19 of 2023 created unrealistic assumptions. Ricciardo clarifies that the team is not a carbon copy of previous cars but is determined to make the most of their current situation.
The former McLaren driver also stated that Red Bull’s progress will be less noticeable compared to their competitors as the team focused on improving their previous model until the last race.
“I believe we have certainly made improvements to the car compared to last year. It’s difficult because we introduced updates in Abu Dhabi, so we are comparing it to a car with recent modifications,” he said.
“If we were to compare it to the car from the race before Abu Dhabi, it would seem like a bigger leap, but it’s more of an evolution.
“There have been some minor improvements here and there, but overall, if we want to ensure consistent appearances in Q3 and top-10 results, there is still work to be done.”
When asked about his satisfaction with Red Bull’s progress after completing the tests in Bahrain, Ricciardo responded, “I’m in a midfield position. But that’s how I view testing.
“Even if you see Sainz topping the time sheets today or something like that, there are so many factors to consider. Is it the fuel? Is it the engine? What time of day was it? So you can never be sure.
“Regardless of where we are in terms of lap times, I prefer to be somewhere in the middle.
“I acknowledge that we probably won’t be on pole position next week. However, I like to believe that we are still in the fight among the midfield teams.
“Of course, our goal for the start of the season is to reach Q3 and score points on Sundays. It would be a positive start to the year.
“Whether we will achieve that or not next week, only time will tell.
But I believe that is the foundation, and as the season progresses and we gain more understanding of the car while working with our new team members, we can start raising the bar a little bit more.
