Daniel Ricciardo: Podium possible after sixth spot on the grid at German Grand Prix

Daniel Ricciardo of Australia and Scuderia Toro Rosso prepares to drive during practice for the German Grand Prix at the Nuerburgring

Daniel Ricciardo believes that he can power his Toro Rosso to podium after qualifying in sixth place for the German Grand Prix.

“If there’s a chance of a podium, let’s go for it! Nothing’s impossible.The tyre strategy is going to be very interesting with some of the top ten on the grid starting on Primes.” said Ricciardo.

Ricciardo has been in top form since the announcement of Webber’s F1 retirement and subsequent vacancy of the second seat at Red Bull for 2014 season. At the last race in Britain, the 24-year-old started the race from fifth on the grid but finished three places behind in eighth after his team decided not to pit for fresh set of tyres during the second Safety Car period. Nevertheless, he showed impressive pace throughout the race.

Coming back to Nurburgring, Ricciardo said he and his team “exceeded expectations” after he was only 16th fastest during the third practice session this morning.

“I’m really delighted with the way qualifying went and it’s very encouraging to be sixth fastest for the second race in a row, which means we are seeing signs of progress and consistency,” said Ricciardo

“We exceeded our expectations today, as in FP3 we did not look so strong. I was particularly pleased with my Q2 lap. I think we did the best we could today and now we look ahead to the race,” the Australian added.

His teammate, Jean Eric Vergne, starts from 16th place.