AUSSIE star Daniel Ricciardo is aiming for a significant improvement from his newly rebranded RB F1 team, as the franchise moves more towards the setup of its sister team Red Bull Racing.<\/p>\n
The 34-year-old managed a handful of decent results in his seven races with AlphaTauri last season, securing six points and providing consistency throughout the qualifying sessions.<\/p>\n
Although his qualifying pace was regularly above that of his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda, the Australian driver was unable to translate that success into regular point finishes.<\/p>\n
With the 2024 \u2018RB VCARB 01\u2019 taking plenty of inspiration from the reigning championship car, Ricciardo is setting the bar high for his new-look team.<\/p>\n
“It’s no longer just a platform for Red Bull Racing, it’s a time for us to fight at the front of the midfield,” he told F1.com.<\/p>\n
“I like what’s happened, the changes that have taken place, there’s something about the team, the mindset is a bit different, kind of like a point to prove. It’s cool. It’s fun.<\/p>\n
“You have to aim high, but being in this sport so long, you want to remain realistic as you don’t want to end up ultimately disappointed.<\/p>\n
“Top fives should be a target and if we get into that position, maybe some podiums present themselves.<\/p>\n
“Of course, we want to win but\u2026 I think we made steps last year, let’s make a few more steps.<\/p>\n
“Do I think top-five results are on the table, and could they be on the table in the first half of the season? I’d like to think so.”<\/p>\n
Ricciardo will get his first chance to drive the 2024 car when F1 heads to Bahrain for its annual pre-season testing starting on 21 February.<\/p>\n