Daniel Ricciardo getting used to "tough midfield"

This time last year, Daniel Ricciardo was pushing for race wins. Now, in his Renault, he finds himself starting the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in 11th. His teammate Nico Hulkenberg was knocked out in Q1.

The Australian isn't positive about his team's performance. Though he is starting to adapt to the midfield battle as he looks to start his fourth race inside the Renault cockpit.

"Considering how the weekend has gone so far, we should probably lower our expectations. This weekend we were a bit behind the pace. Small things cause big change. We have changed things and there is definitely room for improvement," Ricciardo said.

Ricciardo finished qualifying in 12th but gets pushed up one because of Antonio Giovinazzi's grid penalty. Renault sit level with Alfa Romeo and any points are important for the 'best of the rest' placing. Ricciardo knows what he needs to do in Baku.

“You never know what can happen here. I start in the middle of midfield and things can get tough here. We have to drive a nice race and drive to the front like that," Ricciardo said.