• Monaco Grand Prix

Di Resta eyeing points finish

Paul di Resta's running was curtailed on Thursday as he sat out the last hour of second practice © Sutton Images

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• Race:
• Monaco Grand Prix

• Championship:
• FIA Formula One World Championship

• Drivers:
• Paul di Resta

• Teams:
• Racing Point

Paul di Resta says he would be "delighted" to score points in the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend.

After an impressive start to the season, when di Resta scored points at both of the opening races, Force India has slipped slightly off the midfield pace. With driver influence at its maximum around the tight streets of Monaco, many of the midfield will be eyeing points and maybe even a surprise podium. Di Resta said that while it's true anything can happen, the top three was not a realistic hope.

"When you watch this race every year it's the highlight of F1," Di Resta said."I can remember watching one which was wet and only six cars finished, and I can also remember the year Lewis won it (in 2008). He hit the wall and for half a lap had a puncture, stopped, and then the safety car came out. It couldn't have been any better for him.

"There are many things that can happen here. Adrian [Sutil] was on for a good one three years ago until [Kimi] Raikkonen ran into the back of him, so it will be interesting. But a podium? That is a bit unrealistic. However, if we came away from here having scored points then we would be delighted."

Di Resta also said that in order to chase a top ten finish he will have to put in a strong qualifying performance.

"We've been close to getting into Q3 on a number of occasions this year, and we've managed it once. The mechanical set-up will have a big influence on how committed you are and how quickly I can get up to speed. There are variations, but I think we'll have the same approach, with qualifying the key as that will free up race strategy and give you an open mind."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.