Although Red Bull has lodged its Formula 1 entry for 2016, its power unit plans have not been finalised, although it is closing in on a deal to run unbranded Renaults.

But despite the lateness of the situation, and the fact Renault has faced big struggles this year, Ricciardo still has faith that next season will deliver more than this campaign.

"I will know a bit more when we know what is going to be in the back of the car," explained Ricciardo.

"Right now, where we stand, it is hard to say that we are going to challenge for the title - but I would like to think that next year we can get more than two podiums."

Rivals scared

Although it took until just before the Brazilian GP for Ricciardo to find out that his F1 future was secure, he says it is ultimately a 'shame' that Ferrari, Mercedes and Honda rejected engine deals.

When asked if he had ever been concerned he would not be in F1, Ricciardo said: "Obviously it was dragging on a bit.

"But now the team has confirmed we will be on grid, and I know I have a job for next year, that is already a good thing. Quite a few [engine] suppliers turned us down, but it is not concerning – just a bit of a shame.

"You see their reasons, but we have a pretty good chassis so they were a little bit scared. Whatever. We will take what we can for now and then look to 2016."

Ricciardo said he expected Red Bull's engine situation to be sorted by next week.

"I would guess by Abu Dhabi there should be some news for the last race of the year," he said. "I won't promise anything, but hopefully next week we should be able to confirm something."

Interview by Valentin Khorounzhiy