Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsRed Bull Racing

Ricciardo unfazed by 21-race schedule

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As he awaits to embark on his fifth full Grand Prix season, Daniel Ricciardo is about as restless as a impetuous bull in his pen, and has no worries whatsoever about this year's 21-race calendar.

While some teams have acknowledged that the augmented schedule in 2016 will likely complicate logistics and put a strain on team personnel, Ricciardo just sees it as one more opportunity to race.

“I think it’s one more race," said the Australian during Red Bull Racing's launch of its RB12 2016 contender.

"The team will hate me for this but the pre-season has been so long, we’ve done nothing in terms of driving that we could be racing already.

"I started getting back in to the pre-season training camp on the 1st January for example. So that was a month and a half ago and I feel like I’ve been ready for a long time, yet we haven’t even tested yet."

Rearing to go, Ricciardo isn't forecasting any particular exhaustion next summer but did emphasize the need for a break.

"I think having the extra race is fine, and once you start getting in to the swing of the season it’s all good.

"I think having a break in August is good, that makes it a lot more achievable. If we went 21 race straight through from March to October for example, that would be pushing it.

"But I think it’s fine. Let’s throw in a few more, why not?! No testing just more racing!"

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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.