Video: Ricciardo gives the lowdown on China

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Red Bull Racing's Daniel Ricciardo has never achieved a podium finish in Shanghai but the Aussie says there's no reason he can't enjoy a strong race.

I could hardly have gotten any worse for Ricciardo in Melbourne for the season-opening round of the world championship.

The Honey Badger was hit by an electrical issue on the warm-up lap and retired after just 25 laps, much to the chagrin of his very enthusiastic home crowd.

China enjoys its own set of unique challenges, including Shanghai's tricky layout and changing weather conditions.

Coupled with limited knowledge of how F1's new-spec cars will do there the race weekend will probably favour those who have best done their homework and come well prepared.

Check out Daniel Ricciardo's preview in the video below.

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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.