Ricciardo's teammate under pressure

daniilkvyat - cropped

Daniil Kvyat has brushed off criticisms of his performances for Red Bull in the opening four races of the Formula One season.

Much was expected of the 20-year-old after stepping up from Toro Rosso to replace four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, but he has yet to match those high expectations.

With only four points to his name and two non-finishes due to engine problems, Kvyat has suffered more than team-mate Daniel Ricciardo, but that has not stopped some questioning whether he his suitable for Red Bull.

"I will not doubt my own abilities and if others have, I don't care," said Kvyat, who was ninth at the Bahrain Grand Prix. "It's frustrating of course, but on the other hand things can turn around very quickly.

"Obviously, there are things to look at and I'm used to sorting things out with hard work and dedication and that will not change.

"It's about having clean sessions all the time and this is not really happening at the moment.

"When it's so tight, any small thing can hold you back but I'm looking forward to finding a [clear] weekend.

"Then it will be interesting to see where I stand and if I will still be a bit backwards or in front.

"I don't even know where I am at the moment."

Kvyat will hope to find himself in contention at the Spanish Grand Prix, which takes place in Barcelona next month.

He finished 14th there last season.

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