MELBOURNE, Australia -- Daniel Ricciardo believes Red Bull can make significant gains to Mercedes' early pace before qualifying for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.
The local hero was third quickest in the morning session at Albert Park, before struggling later in the day on the ultra-soft compound. He eventually finished a full second off Lewis Hamilton best time of 1:23.220, which was half a second faster than his pole position lap 12 months ago. Despite the gulf on Friday, Ricciardo is confident Red Bull can close the gap before qualifying gets underway.
"Mercedes is obviously quick, but I don't think they are insanely quick," said Ricciardo.