Daniil Kvyat believes AlphaTauri is on the "right path" to eliminating the gap to its midfield rivals in Formula 1.
The team has so far enjoyed a competitive season, with the highlight being Pierre Gasly's Italian Grand Prix victory, but it is recognised there is still a way to go for it to consistently challenge for points finishes.
The race at Monza is the only one this season where the team has managed to score points with both cars.
“I would say our car has been looking more competitive in these last few
races," said Kvyat.
"In general, it’s a very tight midfield and, as we have seen in normal circumstances, without any unusual events in the race, we are slightly behind McLaren, Racing Point and Renault.
"However, we are talking about very tiny margins. We are looking to completely eliminate that gap in the near future and I believe we are on the right path to doing so."
After a rare weekend off, Kvyat will next take to the track in front of 20,000 fans at his home Russian Grand Prix at the Sochi Autodrom.
The Tuscan Grand Prix was raced in front of numerous invited healthcare workers while Ferrari also allowed 2,000 spectators to watch from the stands.
However, the increase in numbers in Russia will be viewed as an important step to bringing fans back to the circuit in earnest.
“It’s great to have a home race and nice to go where people are the same
nationality as you and support you," added Kvyat.
"I’m quite excited about the weekend, as there is always a special feeling for me when I’m in Sochi. We already had some fans allowed in Mugello and I believe there will be even more in Sochi, which will be very cool.
"Of course, it will be important to keep everyone safe, but like every race, there are checks and measures in place to ensure that.
"I hope the spectators will really enjoy the show. I think the grandstand at turn three is still named after me, so I hope that will have plenty of fans.
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