Ricciardo 'ready' to race if needed

The Australian has been signed as Toro Rosso's third driver, and will be in action in every Friday practice session in all grands prix this season.

Should Sebastien Buemi or Jaime Alguersuari be unable to race, Ricciardo feels he would be ready to jump at the opportunity.

"I would have to say yes! With the situation now, I am very happy with how it is," said Ricciardo in Australia on Wednesday.

"And if the opportunity was to arise then I would make sure I am ready."

Ricciardo, who will compete in the Formula Renault 3.5 series this year, insisted his sights are set on a race drive for next season.

He added: "It is a very good opportunity for me this year to do that. That is the basis of it - to get more miles under me and to get more familiar with race weekends and the pressure. And days like today - to be more prepared for what is ahead.

"So I have to do the job on Fridays and then next year, 2012, I really have my eyes set on a full-time seat. If I can work hard towards that this year it should set me up well for next year."

When asked if he felt ready for a full-time race seat next year, he said: "Yes. Yes."