Ricciardo aware of Red Bull's deficit despite podium finish

A podium finish fell into Daniel Ricciardo's bag in the Spanish Grand Prix, but the Red Bull driver is under no illusions when it comes to his team's true level of performance compared to front runners Mercedes and Ferrari.

The Aussie was happy to take whatever came his way after starting sixth on the grid and watching two of his main contenders - Kimi Raikkonen and team mate Max Verstappen - end their race at the first corner.

Still, Ricciardo crossed the checkered flag a distant third, a massive 75 seconds behind race winner Lewis Hamilton.

"I'm aware of the gap to the leaders today. I think they lapped up to fourth place, so I was the next victim," joked Ricciardo.

"I'm really happy to spray some champagne again.

"Valtteri (Bottas) had mechanical problems and we were fourth and got promoted to third, but the 'Honey Badge'r will take what he can get so I'm happy."

Hamilton wins gripping duel with Vettel in Spain

As Formula 1 moves on to Monaco, where anything goes, Ricciardo admitted that he was overjoyed to return to the Principality, where skill can sometimes supersede a car's outright performance.

And where he missed out on a victory last year through no fault of hos own, falling victim his team's pit stop blunder.

"I'm as keen as a 24-pack of mustard, I'm excited to go back there," he said.

"I'm aware we probably don't have the package that we had last year but I'm still excited to rag the hell out of that car around streets, and remind people of my abilities.

Win the ULTIMATE TRACKDAY with F1i.com!

GALLERY: All the action from Barcelona on Saturday

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.