Ricciardo's top-speed hampered by engine and floor issue - Horner

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Red Bull Racing has shed some light on Daniel Ricciardo's relatively weak top-speed in last Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

The Aussie, who said that he had done pretty much all he could to finish sixth in Japan given the circumstances, admitted however that a down-on-power engine had not helped his cause.

Post-race analysis by Red Bull engineers revealed a fuel flow meter issue on his soon to be discarded engine, as well as the RB12's floor rubbing on the track.

"Daniel has looked a little bit down on straight line speed, and the engine guys are having a look at that,” explained Christian Horner after last Sunday's race.

"The engines are towards the end of their life now. Plus his car was perhaps touching a little bit [on the floor] down the straight too.

"I am sure there will be a lot of investigation from the engine guys into that, but both drivers will get their fifth and final engine for the next race."

Red Bull will looking to bring its 'A game' to the final races of the season as it seeks to defend its second place spot in the Constructors standings from rival Ferrari.

Bragging rights are up for grabs for this year's runner-up outfit but more importantly it will be a question of financial gratification insists Horner.

"It is where the financial revenues are distributed. On top of pride, there are financial implications as well. Second is enormously important for next year’s budget situation.

"But I think [the battle] will be swings and roundabouts. Hopefully the next two tracks shouldn’t be too bad. Brazil should suit Ferrari, and Abu Dhabi is probably neutral."

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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.