Ricciardo and Red Bull lose direction on penultimate day

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Daniel Ricciardo admitted his set-up programme went in the wrong direction on his final day of pre-season testing with Red Bull Racing.

The Aussie's complaint wasn't about the mileage - 128 laps - but rather the team's direction as it sought to evolve its RB13.

Ricciardo race simulation Thursday afternoon was also hampered by a several red flag periods which interrupted his flow. Overall, he ended the day sixth on the timesheet.

"I wish we were sandbagging a bit more," laughed Ricciardo.

"Today we weren't quick. I would say day one of this week's test we looked more competitive, probably within two or three tenths of the pace, but today it was a lot more.

"I thought that we'd come a fair way after day three in the car, for me, and then day four in the car, for me, today, but it felt like we probably didn't go that extra step forward.

"I think the progress was good and then today we got a little bit confused, with some set-up things. Hopefully we have some answers tonight."

Vettel fastest, furthest on penultimate test day

Ricciardo is hoping Max Verstappen's final day in the car will bring its lot of understanding and knowledge to enable an upgraded RB13 to make its way to the grid in Melbourne in two weeks.

"I think in Melbourne we're going to see a little bit from both sides, from the power unit and the car, which will have some more aero bits on it," said the Honey Badger.

"Max had a bit of a troubled day, but my day was pretty clean. It's still a little bit hit and miss, I guess, but I feel like come race day we're going to be in a better position."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.