Indian GP: Mallya want both cars to finish with points

New Delhi: Sahara Force India team principal Vijay Mallya feels that the team has certainly upped their performance since the summer break and he is satisfied to see both the drivers are fighting for good points. Malla said that even though it has been a good season so far, the only frustration that remains is that they have not always managed to get two cars in the points which has hurt them in the championship.

“In terms of outright performance, I think we can be pleased with our level of consistency. We’ve had at least one car in the top ten of qualifying in over 80% of the races and scored points in 75% of the races. While we may not have finished on the podium this year, it is our consistency that has been the key to our success and kept us in the fight,” Mallya said.

“Last year’s race was already a tremendous success and I’m sure we can expect an equally spectacular event this year. Buddh International Circuit always looks after us very well and I know that they have been working hard behind the scenes to fine-tune the circuit and facilities even more. But above all else, the most important thing is the layout of the track because last year all the drivers loved it. It’s certainly one of the best tracks in the world,” said the liquor baron ahead of the Indian Grand Prix.

Asked as to how the team is approaching the Indian GP, he said, “I remember how proud I felt last year to see our cars racing in India in the colours of the Indian flag. It was a moment I had dreamed about and a great sporting achievement for our country.”

“To score points was the icing on the cake. This year I would like to go one better and see both our cars in the points – at the very least – so that we can give our fans something to smile about. The gap to Sauber is now 27 points. It’s a big lead, but not impossible to catch them before the end of the year. There’s still a lot of racing to go and we will keep the pressure up for the final four races,” added Mallya.

Meanwhile Paul di Resta said there is pressure on them to perform well as it their home race. “It’s obviously our home Grand Prix and a special weekend. It’s a busy week for everyone involved with the team and there’s a lot going on in terms of media work and extra events, but it won’t distract from our focus to come away with the best result we can,” said Resta.

“We’ve got to go there and qualify in the top ten. That will get us in contention and allow us to concentrate on the race. All year we’ve shown that we have a car capable of reaching Q3, but the grid is very close and we don’t have any margin so we need everything to come together perfectly. Also, based on our performance last year, we looked quite competitive at this track so you’ve got to hope that will carry over for this year,” added Resta.

By Indian Sports News Network