Daniel Ricciardo prepared for tough F1 season

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Ricciardo shone in his first season with Red Bull after moving from Toro Rosso, out-performing four-time world champion Vettel on a regular basis.

Having dominated the sport for four years, Vettel was only able to record four podiums in 2014.

Ricciardo scored 71 points more than his team-mate over the season and was the only man other than Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg to taste victory, winning three times.

The 25-year-old knows his form could easily dip, but believes he is well-equipped to get over any slump.

"I am riding a pretty big wave at the moment and I am sure, eventually, that will come down and then back up - but that's normal," he told Autosport.

"It is about controlling your emotions and not getting too frustrated with it - just finding ways to drive around it and accepting that, okay you are not going to win, but a fifth would still be better than a 10th, so try and get fifth.

"It is always easier said than done, [though].

"Particularly now I have won a few races, if I am running around fifth or sixth I am not really happy with that.

"So, it's easy to get frustrated and want more, but that is where it gets tough and you sometimes have to take a step back and deal with what it is and never lose your confidence or belief.

"I have won a race this year, so in two years' time I shouldn't be a worse driver - I should be better.

"Maybe the opportunity wouldn't be the same, but you should never doubt your own ability."

 

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