The Hot Rod or Hot Dog mid-season review - Force India

- Published on Aug 23rd, 2011 by Craig Normansell

Force India

• Best Result: 6th (Adrian Sutil, Germany)
• Points Scored: 26
• Championship Position: 7th

India's fist F1 team had a lot to look forward to for 2011 - one established driver, one promising rookie and a home race on the cards. The problem is they haven't really been a fast or a slow team this year, they've just done what's expected of a midfield stalwart. If you look at how far the team has grown in two seasons, it's an achievement. The promise is starting to be realised in recent races - a sprinkling of Q3 appearences and a pair of strong points finished - although it's more of a case of Mercedes and Renault losing ground than Force India making it up. If they keep plugging away like they are though, it's going to be a strong season and another small step forward for the team.

Status: Chasing Dog

Adrian Sutil should have thought this season would be a walk in the park for him. Another year in an improving car, with a teammate fresh from DTM of all places, who wouldn't be confident? Underestimating Paul di Resta was probably a big mistake on the German's part, and is now having to reassert himself in a team that should be - rightfully - his. And speaking of the young Scot, his stock has risen immensely thanks to many reasons. Quick from the off and points straight away (mainly thanks to an illegal Sauber wing) caught the eye, as well as sterling qualifying performances. The only thing that needs sharpening is his race craft. Many incidents involving contact with other cars could be down to the fact di Resta's still got a touring car brain, but they need to be eradicated if he wants to make it in a top team. The fact that it's only the only criticism of a driver in his first year of the sport is wonder it itself.

Badger's Best: di Resta