Ricciardo proud of test performance

The British Formula 3 champion put on a superb showing on Thursday to finish over 1.3 seconds ahead of his closest rival in the Red Bull Racing car.

The Australian admitted he was delighted with his day's work.

"It puts a big, proud smile on my face definitely," Ricciardo said. "It was a great day and we were able to get some real pace out of the car and myself.

"I was becoming much more confident after a couple of days in the car and I think the team were quite satisfied. I think they got some good data for next year."

Ricciardo was also pleased with how he had adapted to the requirements of working with a Formula 1 team.

He added: "Working within a Formula 1 team was completely different to anything I've ever experienced, but it was really good.

"I think I adapted quite well and understood that there are a lot of people and that they've all got their purpose within the team. We all got along and had a good three days together."

And he revealed that he spoke to Red Bull driver Mark Webber after the test, the Australian giving his young compatriot encouragement.

"I spoke to him a couple of hours ago to let him know how it all went," he said. "He was very positive about it all and gave me some encouragement - hopefully I'll do a bit of training with him next year and hopefully he'll be able to tell me how to get a bit more out of the car."