Ricciardo plans to take Renault to the "next level"

Daniel Ricciardo believes he is good enough to take Renault to "the next level" in Formula 1 as the team's long-term plan continues. The Australian sent seismic waves through the F1 paddock when he surprisingly signed for Renault instead of Red Bull.

Ricciardo won two races in 2018, and while he might not be in a race-winning a car next season, a solid drive with the right strategy and he could squeeze out a few podiums. After finishing in the best of the rest position last year, podium finishes really are the "next level" for the French team.

“Obviously the driving I will always keep improving, but just try to figure out how to bring the team to the next level. Just be engaged in the whole process I guess and not get lazy," Ricciardo said in an interview on Crash.

“I want more from myself in terms of I’ll always want more, I expect more from my presence in the team,” Ricciardo stated revealing his expectations.

“Nico [Hulkenberg] is experienced and he’s been around, and I want to expect myself to become part of that team very quickly. And have a presence in the team, and be another source of push and fire and motivation. I guess I’m just expecting to carry good work ethic and to bring the people around us to work on what they have."

Both drivers will have to get working hard soon, but New Year celebrations are still ongoing. Daniel Ricciardo brought in the new year with style in front of a BBQ, while Hulkenberg is swimming with some beer and cocktails! 

happy new year fellas pic.twitter.com/Q2YKZJPJgr

— Nico Hülkenberg (@HulkHulkenberg) January 1, 2019