Sebastian Vettel‘s surprise switch to Ferrari opened the door for 20-year-old Russian Kvyat to move up from Tost’s Toro Rosso team to the senior Red Bull squad for 2015, continuing the rapid progress begun by the Russian’s leap straight into F1 after winning the 2013 GP3 title.
Kvyat scored points in his maiden grand prix and twice started in the top five in his rookie season.
Tost told AUTOSPORT he had anticipated such a performance, and therefore has absolute faith that Kvyat will shine at Red Bull even though he is moving into a top team earlier than would be ideal.
“I was not surprised. I expected this. That’s the reason why we took him,” he said of Kvyat’s 2014 form.
“I’m also convinced that he will do a good job at Red Bull Racing.
“But that’s the situation and with his talent and working attitude he will do a good job with Red
Bull Racing, as he did with us.
“No one expected that after winning the GP3 title he would come into Formula 1 and score points in the first race.
“He will put on the same good performance at Red Bull Racing.”
Tost is sure Kvyat is ready to be a grand prix winner if the Red Bull-Renault is quick enough.
Asked if moving early was a risk for Kvyat, Tost replied: “It depends on how competitive the complete package will be.
“Normally if it’s a car that is very, very good that helps a lot.
“And if the power unit is also competitive then he will be in front and he will fight for victories.”
Originally published by: AUTOSPORT.com