Sahara Force India drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Paul di Resta are eager to finish strongly in their ‘home’ Grand Prix on the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) and help the team pursue its target of achieving the sixth spot in the constructors’ championship.
The drivers hoped to bank on the crowd support and gain some valuable points. Currently, Sauber (116 points) holds the sixth place, one above Force India (89 points).
“We are seventh in the constructors’ championship and the aim is to finish sixth. We want to have four strong races,” said Hulkenberg, 12th among the drivers with 45 points.
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Paul di Resta, a point less than his German teammate, agreed with Hulkenberg.
“The race has been closer (this year) and on paper we had the most successful year. The challenge is still there. Mathematically, it is still possible to beat them (Sauber).”
On the prospect of the team racing on the BIC for the second time, di Resta said, “It is a special one. It is a bit like individuals on their own GPs. Last year, it was about people’s awareness of F1. It is nice to see that support.”
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Hulkenberg, refraining from speaking about the speculation regarding his move to Sauber next year, said: “Last year, I did not race. But I was watching closely what the team did in every GP. We had a strong finish to the season.
“This year, Paul and I had some good results over the last few events. The aim is now to repeat that for the last four races.”
Steady progress
According to di Resta, the steady progress of the team was due to the same group of people working together for the past three years.
The British driver said he and Hulkenberg had a healthy competition between them and were capable of achieving podium finishes. “In my case, in Singapore the safety car probably cost us a podium. Nico in Spa was very close.”
Hulkenberg was satisfied with his showing this season.
“Initially, it was not easy coming back. The first four races were difficult. Then, after that it is going quite well. Had nice rhythm and we were confident with the car.”
About some changes to the BIC track (relating to kerbs and astro-turfs) this year, di Resta said minor issues were found in every track and the one in Greater Noida would become better with time. “Until we see it, it is unclear. Overtaking will be difficult if they have lengthened the DRS zones,” said di Resta.