Tost eyes fifth place finish for Toro Rosso

Editor

Toro Rosso team principal Franz Tost is confident that the team can challenge for fifth place in the World Constructors' Championship this season.

The Red Bull junior team suffered their first double DNF of the 2017 campaign in Canada, allowing the gap to close slightly to likes of Williams, Renault and Haas.

But, despite the setback, Tost is hopeful they have the package to remain competitive throughout the season.

"We're now in fifth place in the championship, and very close with the others as well," Tost told GP Gazzette.

"That means after each race it could change. But at least we have scored the points. I think we have a package which is quite competitive from the car side, and also from the engine side.

"The drivers are doing a good job, and also the team has made steps forward."

42 points ahead in fourth are Force India, and Tost suggested that they are already too far ahead to catch up with and will instead try and settle for fifth place.

"Force India has scored many, many points, especially in Barcelona," he added.

"They have a very strong package, I must say with Mercedes, they are very strong on the car side. They also made quite good steps forward.

"I do not want to become high-headed. I think the fifth place is realistic, and I'll be more than happy at the end of the year when we score the fifth place. Then I'll invite you for a dinner with a party!"