Daniel Ricciardo believes Red Bull Racing have a good all-round package this weekend in Monaco after ending the second free practice session on Thursday with the fastest time.
The Australian set a time of 1:14.607 during the afternoon’s running to take top spot on the Ultrasoft Pirelli tyre, and believes that the upgraded Renault is just one of the good parts of the RB12 this weekend.
Ricciardo expects Mercedes to raise their game during qualifying, but is targeting his maiden Formula 1 pole position on Saturday and a return to the top step of the podium on Sunday.
“The engine has helped a little bit but obviously we have a good car around here as well, I think it’s down to a little bit of both,” said Ricciardo. “Let’s see how we go in qualifying on Saturday.
“We are in a good position, depending on what the track is going to do on Sunday. I have good confidence with the car which is very important around here.
“We have a bit more downforce than other cars so that keeps us a bit steadier. If you’re going to pick the races on the calendar to win then Monaco is up there, it’s so prestigious, and you can really show personality around this track.
“Come qualifying and race day Mercedes will turn it up but hopefully I can stay in front. I’ll be surprised if we can keep the gap we have today in qualifying but we will see how we go.
“If the weather stays the same for the race and qualifying we won’t change too many things. The goal here is pole and win.”
