F1: Ricciardo expects form to dip

Daniel Ricciardo says he is mentally prepared for when his stunning 2014 Formula 1 form takes an inevitable dip in the future.

The Australian stepped up to Red Bull from junior team Toro Rosso this year and beat his four-time F1 world champion teammate Sebastian Vettel in the same car. Ricciardo  received widespread praise within the paddock for his consistently excellent performances behind the wheel in 2014, but the three-time grand prix winner said it would be important to get ready for an eventual slump.

When asked how he would deal with a period of struggle such as that experienced by Vettel this year, Ricciardo replied: "I think that is an important one. 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.

"I think controlling your bad days as best as possible, or the times when maybe the car is a complete box the whole weekend [is important]. It is about controlling your emotions and not getting too frustrated with it – just finding ways to drive around it and accepting that, OK you are not going to win, but a fifth would still be better than a 10th, so try and get fifth."

Ricciardo said he would do his best to maintain the relaxed attitude that has served him so well in his career so far.

"It is always easier said than done," he added. "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."