Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsRed Bull Racing

Ricciardo looks ahead to Japan

Undeterred by the media's latest round of speculation regarding a potential buy-out of Red Bull Racing by Volkswagen, Daniel Riccardo looks ahead to Suzuka where the Aussie is hoping to hit the ground running on the back of a satisfying second place finish in Singapore.

Suzuka is often described as one of Formula 1's favourite venues amongst the drivers, and Ricciardo is no exception although the Red Bull racer admits to being infatuated with Japan in general

“I love going to Japan, and I’m absolutely fascinated by Tokyo," enthused the Red Bull racer.

" I turn into a complete tourist, gawping at the place, the people, the food - it’s just so incredibly cool. Personally, I really like hanging out in the tiny bars: crazy little places maybe only five square meters. It’s a really good experience. I recommend it.”

"Suzuka is fast, it’s flowing, and it’s got everything. High-speed, lowspeed, inclines, drops. Wonderful circuit."

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One of the track's highlights is Sector One, with its challenging high-speed changes of direction which underscore a well-balanced machine.

"If you can get a good balance on the car and link up all the left-right, left-right corners, that normally puts you in a good position for the rest of the lap. So, if you want to prioritise the car setup, it’s in that sector."

Ricciardo finished fourth at Suzuka last year, right behind his then team-mate Sebastian Vettel, the man he hopes to battle with once again as Red Bull Racing seeks to continue improving its form in a period of expectancy regarding its future engine partner.

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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.