Ricciardo eyes new deal

The Australian has scored only two points through his ninth-place finish in Melbourne, although his qualifying performances compared to team-mate Jean-Eric Vergne have made a good impression.

But despite missing out on a potential Red Bull seat after Mark Webber, whose new deal was announced after the British Grand Prix, was re-signed, Ricciardo admits that he always saw his Toro Rosso seat as at least a two-year plan.

"Unless we were getting some podiums and doing something extraordinary, I never saw that happening next year," Ricciardo told AUTOSPORT when asked about his hopes of moving to Red Bull.

"The thought of it was nice, but I wasn't disappointed because I didn't really expect it. We've still got a bit to learn.

"I'm definitely happy here. I'm not confirmed for what I am doing next year, but I'd be happy to do another year here to improve myself and see what happens."

Ricciardo admits that he does not expect to have a decision from Red Bull on next year until the end of the season.

In 2011, STR drivers Jaime Alguersuari and Sebastien Buemi did not learn their fate until December, but Ricciardo is in no rush.

"It's always very late and since I started with the Red Bull junior team, the earliest news I got was November," said Ricciardo.

"If it comes before that, I would be surprise. Some good results would maybe confirm it a little bit sooner, but I think it will be quite late."