Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen believe they will emerge as the second quickest team during the British Grand Prix weekend and don't believe they're far from pace-setters Mercedes.
Ricciardo ended second practice just under four-tenths shy of quickest man Lewis Hamilton, whilst team-mate Verstappen was a further three-tenths behind.
However on their longer-run pace, Red Bull look to have the measure of Mercedes and looked to be even quicker as the tyres degraded, suggesting Red Bull could pose a threat during the race, even if they fail to qualify ahead.
"Generally today was really good," said Ricciardo. "It’s always hard to know where the others are but I think we’re pretty happy and the longer runs seemed to be a bit more competitive so we’re getting there. Not a bad Friday.
"We look fairly good compared to Lewis at the moment but I feel they’ll have a bit more at their disposal tomorrow.
"I especially wanted to get on top of the race runs today and understand it a bit better, as that was a weakness last week in Austria. I think we’re doing alright.
"Sunday could be a really good fight with Ferrari for a podium. Hopefully we can make those tyres last a bit longer and get up there."
Verstappen concurred, noting their strong long-run form, and believes there is more pace to come from the RB12.
"A very good day. Long run and short run pace was good so we are hoping to be close to the front. You never know what Ferrari or other teams will do but for the moment we are very happy with where we are, it’s a bit of a power track but there are still some corners which suit us," he added.
"We are not too far off the Mercedes which is always good. There were one or two balance issues so we will make some changes overnight because you always want to be going forward and remain up front.
"I’m pretty happy but I want to go even faster tomorrow. I think if we can be the second team on the grid that would be very good. Definitely a positive start to the weekend."
