Daniel Ricciardo: Max Verstappen's F1 rise could be frightening

Verstappen impressed as an F1 rookie last year with Toro Rosso, won May's Spanish Grand Prix on his first start with Red Bull and has finished second in the last two races.

This weekend's Hungarian GP will be his 30th start, and when asked if it was frightening that Verstappen is still just 18, Ricciardo said: "It's an interesting one.

"You look at it, and if he's to keep progressing at the rate he's started and keep getting better and better for the next five or 10 years, perhaps it's frightening for quite a few people.

"The only things I'm scared of are sharks and snakes, so it's OK."

Ricciardo is still two places ahead in the drivers' championship, but has been outscored by Verstappen 77 to 64 in their six races together.

While Verstappen also outqualified him for the first time at Silverstone, Ricciardo said the points swing was "not a concern".

"Obviously I'm aware he's done very well and has had the win and the podiums," he said.

"I don't like looking back, but I could have had at least one win.

"He's been competitive and it hasn't just been I've had all the bad luck and he's had all of the good luck - he's been quick and put himself there.

"I won't make excuses if he's beaten me fair or square.

"I think generally he's been quick and unfortunately he's scored more than me but I've got a few races now to close it up."

AIMING FOR PODIUM AT LEAST

Ricciardo claimed the second of his three grand prix victories in 2014 at the Hungaroring, and the characteristics of the circuit suit Red Bull.

Having dominated the Monaco weekend until a disastrous pitstop, Ricciardo said he has his sights set on a podium at least.

"With our car, you look at three on the calendar - Monaco, this and Singapore - as our best chance and at least a podium is what we're thinking," he said.

"That's the first thing we'll set our sights on, then we'll see.

"Hopefully somewhere higher on the podium but I think realistically we can be really close to Mercedes and Ferrari here."