Montreal key to remainder of Red Bull season - Ricciardo

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Daniel Ricciardo will not only be looking to put his massive Monaco disappointment behind him in Montreal, the Red Bull stalwart also believes the Canadian event may prove a decisive test for his Tag Heuer-branded power unit.

Renault brought forward its latest upgrades to its engine last weekend but the twisty nature of the lay-out in the Principality, where Red Bull outperformed Mercedes in qualifying, did not provide the best terrain to accurately gauge the manufacturer's latest spec power unit.

"I think Canada is going to be interesting," said the Australian, who recovered his smile and good spirit with an entertaining stay in New York before heading to Canada.

"It’s still a street circuit but there’s a long straight and it’s a bit more of a horsepower circuit. I think that will be a sign.

"If we can be quick, then I think we can be quick really for the remainder of the season. If we can fight for a podium in Canada then we should be able to fight everywhere else."

Ricciardo also returns to the scene of his very first Grand Prix win, achieved in 2014, which should provide the Aussie with an extra mental boost.

"I love Canada, I love Montreal, the city’s great and I really enjoy the circuit. I like the people a lot, it’s a very friendly city – it’s easily one of my top five races.

"It’s a place where you can really muscle the car around the chicanes which is fun. I love the race – my first win in Canada will always be special so I’m keen to get back there.

"Unfortunately last year was probably my worst race of the year but I hope it will be a lot better this year."

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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.