Carlos Sainz hopes Toro Rosso can finish fifth in the 2017 Formula 1 Constructors’ championship, though he labels a maiden career podium as “utopia” at the moment.
Sainz is coming off a strong 2016 campaign where the 22-year-old further established his reputation as a rising star in the sport.
His name was linked to a Renault works seat but Red Bull moved swiftly to insist he was under contract with its junior squad for a third consecutive season.
Despite Toro Rosso getting current-spec Renault power units - they raced year-old Ferrari engines last year - the Spaniard admits it will be tough to become an F1 podium finisher in 2017.
“Talking about my first podium right now is a utopia,” Sainz told Spanish radio Cadena Cope.
“Challenging McLaren will be a tall order, as they have a bigger budget than us.
“Hopefully Toro Rosso will rank behind the Big Four, which for me will be Mercedes, Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren.”
Saint’s career-best results are the trio of impressive sixth-place finishes he claimed in Barcelona, Austin, and Interlagos last year.
Toro Rosso, for its part, placed P7 in the 2016 Constructors’ standings, behind Force India, Williams, and McLaren.
GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…
Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…
Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…
Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…
Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…
The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…