Ricciardo issues challenge to Toro Rosso ahead of final race of the season

Daniel Ricciardo has laid down the gauntlet to Renault's nearest rivals, Toro Rosso as the battle for second place in the midfield battle is set to go down to the wire at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Pierre Gasly's podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix has helped Toro Rosso close the gap to Renault to just eight points. McLaren are way ahead as midfield victors but P5 is ready to go to the very end at the Yas Marina circuit.

Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg have amassed 91 points between them giving them a slight advantage over their rivals. The prior has issued a challenge to Toro Rosso ahead of this weekend's season finale.

"Game on," Ricciardo tells Motorsport.com.

"Of course I prefer that we (score more points), but it is nice if the pressure stays with us for the final race.

“It gives us something to really fight for in Abu Dhabi, so we don't get distracted. I really enjoy this circuit, it always goes well there. So yes, I am ready to go. 

“Looking at this year's results, the similarities are great. On many circuits where I had trouble this year, something similar happened with this team last year."