• Indian Grand Prix

Mallya's delight at double points

ESPN Staff
October 28, 2013 « Perez believes fifth has lifted pressure | Lotus apologises for Raikkonen radio language »
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Vijay Mallya said he was "delighted" to have both Force Indias finish in the points at the Indian Grand Prix.

Having been on a run of scoring just three points across seven races prior to India, the team was under real pressure from a resurgent Sauber with four races to go. However, Paul di Resta finished eighth and Adrian Sutil ninth as both Sauber's failed to score, helping Force India pull 23 points clear in the constructors' standings.

"Like everybody in the team I am delighted to see both Sahara Force Indias score points in our home race," Mallya said. "That's the goal we set ourselves ahead of the weekend and the six points scored are very important for strengthening our position in the Constructors' Championship. The second half of the season has been challenging for us, but we showed that we never give up and that all the recent hard work has paid off.

"I want to congratulate the engineers for making the right calls with the strategy, the drivers for their strong performances, and the mechanics for consistently quick pit stops. With just three races remaining this season, there is plenty to play for and we will go to Abu Dhabi determined to keep up this momentum."

Di Resta also believes Force India will continue to be strong, saying: "[One] positive is that we've steadily improved the car over the last few weeks and I'm feeling more comfortable, so I think we can be optimistic of performing at a similar level in Abu Dhabi next week."

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