Belgian Grand Prix winner, Daniel Ricciardo, says that he intends to keep fighting for the Formula One Drivers’ Championship title until it is mathematically impossible after claiming his third victory of the season this past weekend.

Ricciardo took his spot in the pound seats after a collision between Mercedes team mates Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg and notched up the maximum 25 points, moving to within 64 points of Rosberg.

When asked whether he considers himself a title contender, Ricciardo said, “If I’m within 50 coming into Abu Dhabi then yeah, but there’s still a few races to go. While it’s still mathematically possible we’ll keep fighting. Today was a big day for that.

“To come and steal some points on a circuit where let’s say we weren’t supposed to is nice but I think what’s important, looking ahead, is to capitalise on the circuits that we should be strong on and if we can take maximum points, let’s say, at a couple of those then it’s never over.”

Ricciardo believes he’s exceeded expectations after winning three of the season’s 12 races.

“Obviously for me it’s great, it’s what I wanted to achieve, to get some race wins,” he said.

“To have three in 12 races I think has exceeded a few expectations. Let’s say the in-team battle has gone really well. Obviously I’ve showed speed throughout qualifying and also races now.

“I’ve demonstrated good racecraft and good consistency so I think let’s say the team has been really pleased and I’ve been pleased so we’re in a good place. I’m enjoying it more than ever. Each race that goes on I’m having more and more fun so yeah, just having a good time.”

Ricciardo is the only driver so far this season to have beaten a Mercedes driver having been there to capitalise on any slip ups from the silver team.

“It couldn’t have gone better, considering everything, particularly pre-season. It’s been awesome – I’ve enjoyed every moment of it. I’m happy to keep it up like this and let it continue. Monza will be challenging but then we’ve got Singapore and Suzuka which should be fun for us. We’ll just keep going and if they [Mercedes] slip up then we’ll be there to capitalise.”