Points 'realistic target' for Force India

Helped by the Power Unit of Mercedes, Force India displays a good level of reliability and performance with its VJM10 following winter testing in Barcelona (Spain). The Australian Grand Prix contested this weekend at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne will be the first meeting which will allow a precise hierarchy to be established, with teams often hiding their true performances during pre-season tests.

“I have always said that Melbourne is a great venue to start the season and there is reason to be excited this year with the new generation of single-seaters making their competitive debut. It’s interesting for the teams and my media and above all for the public”, commented Vijay Mallya, director of Force India.

“It’s never easy to make predictions, even after eight days of testing in Barcelona, added the Indian businessman. Saturday's qualifying will give us a first glimpse of the order in the peloton. The VJM10 is clearly reliable after completing 785 laps during testing and we are encouraged by its pace over the long runs. We arrive in Melbourne feeling optimistic about our ability to get the points. »

Sergio Pérez will seek to secure the top ten after failing to finish in 13th place last year while his former teammate Nico Hulkenberg took 7th place.

“The track is nice because it feels like a street circuit. It is very green at the start of the weekend and we obtain both more grip and confidence at the wheel as the meeting progresses., recalled the Mexican. I think we can get a good result by picking up points in the first race. Australia is a place where anything can happen and we have experienced unpredictable races there in the past. »

The challenge will be more complicated for Esteban Ocon since the new recruit will make his first start in Melbourne.

“I continued my preparation by working on the simulator over the last few days, explained the 2015 GP3 Series champion. I don’t really know the layout, but it’s an old school track and I like that kind of circuit. It's never easy when you don't know the trajectories and Friday will therefore be very important to get feedback from the engineers and know where I can be faster. I believe I have all the tools and personnel necessary to achieve this. »