Ricciardo: Singapore will offer victory chance

Daniel Ricciardo believes this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix is likely to offer up his best opportunity to score a victory before the end of the season.

The tight and technical characteristics of the Marina Bay street circuit have favoured the Red Bull team in recent years that is down on power compared to its rivals Mercedes and Ferrari.

Ricciardo also boasts an impressive record in Singapore having finished on the podium in each of the last three editions of the race.

The Australian has qualified and finished second in both 2015 and last season, which saw the Red Bull driver chase down Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg to the chequered flag.

Red Bull imposed engine penalties on its drivers at Monza to maximise its chances this weekend.

“I believe Singapore won’t be our only chance but is one of our best chances of a win in the second half of the season,” said Ricciardo.

“I’ve started second and finished second at this track in the last two years, with fastest lap both times, so my aim this year is definitely to start on pole and try to go one better in the race.

“You have to build up speed a little slower in the practice sessions on a street circuit like Singapore. At some point you have to start taking risks but to do that straight away doesn’t make sense.”

Ricciardo, who is fourth in the standings, heads to Singapore following an impressive drive from 16th on the grid to fourth at the Italian Grand Prix.

Friday opening practice is scheduled for 1830 AEST.