Sahara Force India started off its new Formula One season on a resounding note when comeback man Adrian Sutil and Paul di Resta finished seventh and eighth respectively in the Australian Grand Prix and earned the team 10 World Championship points.
Germany’s Sutil moved up five places on the grid to earn six points, while Britain’s di Resta, who was ninth fastest in the qualifying, gained a position to collect four points.
Sutil said this result for the team was a perfect way to start the season.
“What a fantastic race and a great feeling. I started on the medium tyres, a different strategy to most of the cars ahead of me, and I think this was the right decision.”
“The pace was quick and the car felt very good on the medium tyres so I was able to keep up with the guys in front of me, who I knew were going to pit early. It was not long until I was leading the race — my first time leading in Formula One,” he said.
“I want to say a big ‘thank you’ to the team once again,” Sutil added.
di Resta said the top-ten finish for both the cars is a great way to kick off the season.
“Seventh and eighth for the team is a great result.
“There are a lot of positives to take from the race, as well as some things that we can improve to make the car stronger, but we’re in a good position heading to Malaysia,” said di Resta.