Daniel Ricciardo still thinks Mercedes are the team to beat in 2018 despite the Aussie setting a new track record at the Circuit de Catalunya.

Ricciardo was the star of the show on day two of the second test as he lit up the timesheets with a blistering time of 1:18.047 on hypersoft tyres.

However, even though the time added further evidence that Red Bull could be in a position to attack from the off this season, Ricciardo believes Mercedes are still playing their cards very close to their chest.

“I’m sure Mercedes are still the top dogs at the moment but I don’t feel we are far off,” said Ricciardo.