Daniel Ricciardo will start Sunday’s Australian Grand Prix from 15th on the grid after being hit with a five-spot penalty.

The Australian driver had qualified 10th fastest for the season-opening race at Melbourne’s Albert Park circuit.

But after crashing in Saturday qualifying, his Red Bull Racing car required a gear box change, which incurs a penalty of five spots on the grid.

“It’s not perfect but it is how it is – more motivation to carve through the field,” Ricciardo said.

“This race, typically, you always have a few incidents or not everyone finishes this race. … there is quite a few unknowns.

“I will be smart. I will go for it but make sure I am there at the end.”

In Saturday’s qualifying session, Ricciardo spun at a routine corner and crashed into a barrier.

The crash necessitated urgent repairs to his car ahead of Sunday’s race which starts about 1600 AEDT.