Renault F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo admits the British GP doesn’t suit his car but remains confident he’ll bounce back from a “crappy” Austrian race at Silverstone this weekend.

Ricciardo has struggled since making a surprise switch from Red Bull to Renault this season, with his best result sixth in Canada.

Red Bull won five races last season, while Renault haven’t been on the podium in eight years but Ricciardo insists they are still rebuilding.

The 30-year-old finished a disappointing 12th in Austria two weeks ago when he was lapped by former Red Bull teammate and race-winner Max Verstappen.

“We had Monaco and Canada with some big results and it felt like ‘wow we’re really there now’ and then we fell back down last race to where we were at the start of the season, so it was a bit of a reality check,” Ricciardo said.

“Everyone is still improving and growing and we need to keep moving forward. It’s a challenge, the midfield is so tight but I’m confident we can get back there, I don’t think this is a trend, we just have to execute.

“I want to be hard on myself and when I’m not doing the best I can then I’m going to be honest and in Austria yeah I could have done better. My first lap was crappy. I want to address that and be better and be perfect and give it all and know I’ve done everything I can.”

Ricciardo said Silvertone presented another challenge but the Australian export was confident of an improved performance in England.

“To be honest these aren’t our stronger circuits. This is where McLaren is really strong (on the faster tracks),” Ricciardo said.

“But I’m glad we’re here, it’s your weakness you need to make better, it’s no fun trying to improving your strengths if they’re already there.

“Sunday will be a better race, a better first lap, a better Daniel. I’ve spent some time in the simulator and I think we’ve done what we can to prepare better for this weekend.”

Ricciardo emphasised he was happy to see Verstappen win in a season dominated by Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.

“I’m glad Max got the win because for the sport, we needed that,” Ricciardo said.

“If a driver is perfect all weekend in a fast car then he’s probably going to run away and the race will be boring so yeah you need a bit of variability.

“Hopefully I can have a more exciting race and create some of that excitement this weekend.”