Red Bull nearing decision on F1 engine future - Ricciardo

Renault has fallen further behind both Mercedes and Ferrari this year and this has caused ructions inside the alliance that won four drivers and constructors' championships between 2010-13.

Renault is considering its F1 future with a return to the grid as a full manufacturer entry, via a buy-out of Lotus, under discussion.

That would lead to the prospect of Red Bull's works relationship with Renault becoming a customer supply deal if it continued to use the French firm's engines.

There has also been speculation Red Bull could take Mercedes power units as part of a deal with Aston Martin, however, it has since emerged that an Aston tie-up is more likely to happen with Mercedes-powered outfits Williams or Force India.

"It's in the hands of the team," said Ricciardo of Red Bull's engine situation.

"I'm keeping my ears open to what's happening and being discussed with the team, with Renault and with the team's future.

"From what I understand, in the next two weeks there should be a bit more of a plan in place. Let's see what happens after that."

When asked if Red Bull would have a Renault engine next year, the Australian said: "Not the current one! A significantly better Renault, I would accept.

"But as we are now, I don't think we could go with this performance again next year.

"Things have obviously been improving. We need a significant gain."

Regarding his own future, Ricciardo is understood to be locked into a long-term deal with Red Bull following his breakout 2014 campaign.

But he has been linked with a move to Ferrari, with the Scuderia yet to announce whether it will take up an option to retain Kimi Raikkonen alongside Sebastian Vettel in 2016.

"There was obviously a bit of Ferrari talk around Silverstone," he said.

"We've had a few weeks off and from my side nothing's eventuated.

"I haven't read anything or anything like that.

"Up to now it's just been rumours through the media. There hasn't been any direct contact."