Ricciardo describes his 2020 expectations in one word: 'Champagne!'

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Daniel Ricciardo downplayed his expectations for this season when he signed for Renault, but the Aussie is now determined to revive the old 'shoey' in 2020.

Ricciardo last found his way to the podium in 2018 when he triumphed in Monaco. So far this year, the Renault driver's best result has been a fourth-place finish at Monza.

Asked in Brazil about his prospects for next season, the 30-year-old offered a one-word reply: "Champagne!".

"Really, when I signed with the team, 2020 was the target, to finish on the podium at least once. So that’s really the target.

"McLaren’s proof in the pudding that you can really make a big difference in one season, so I think with a strong off-season, it’s not impossible for us to have a chance to fight for that next year.

"But ultimately, whether it’s champagne or not, we want to get closer to the top three and actually be in the fight with those three teams more consistently next year."

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Renault's current fifth place in the Constructors' standings is a slight shortfall for the French outfit relative to the target it set itself for 2019.

But Ricciardo insists that beyond the tangible results, a lot has been accomplished by the Renault this year, especially in the second half of 2019 during which the team's performance level has improved.

"I knew it would take time to get the team to where we wanted to go," explained Australia's favourite Honey Badger.

"We’re still not there, but I think the second half of this season, we’ve had a bit more consistency. That’s been more positive.

"I think now we have some momentum, [it’s important] to bring that momentum through the winter for the factory, for the team who’s going to then put the effort in to get the car on track next year….

"For everyone to finish the season with their chins up and a spring in their steps and be happy to work through the winter, with a positive mind-set that the following season’s going to be better.

“I’ll start to expect more, not only from myself but also from the team come 2020, but I think we’ve learned a lot. I know I have.

"The results haven’t always been what we wanted, but I definitely don’t see it being a year to forget, or anything like that. Far from it."

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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.