Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsRed Bull Racing

Race strategy will be an unknown - Ricciardo

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Daniel Ricciardo secured fifth in today's qualifying session, just behind team-mate Daniil Kvyat, following a relatively consistent afternoon run, although the Australian was left only half satisfied with his day's work.

"Practice looked pretty good but to be honest all through qualifying I wasn't really that happy," Ricciardo admitted.

"We struggled to sort of find the level of grip we had this morning. In the end, to be 4th and 5th as a team isn't bad, and we can definitely race from there, but for sure we hoped for a bit better."

Ricciardo admitted that Red Bull's outlook for tomorrow's race with regard to strategy was still uncertain given Mexico's maiden status, but it would be the same for everyone.

"It's a bit unknown, I think everyone will try to go for a one-stop because it's a new track surface which is normally not too aggressive on the tyres. So I think we'll try to do a one stop but who knows if it will work."

"Starting fifth, at least on the clean side, and with a pretty long run down to the first corner, we'll have to make sure we get into the right tow."

While his motivation is intact, the Aussie confessed the day had started off on a low key with Australia's defeat by New Zealand in the rugby World Cup. "That was a bit painful, so I've got a bit of steam to let out this evening."

REPORT: Rosberg beats Hamilton to Mexican GP pole

AS IT HAPPENED: Mexican Grand Prix - Qualifying

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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.