Mallya in the red but Force India goes pink following new sponsorship deal

Force India's Formula One cars will sport a new pink livery this season after the team signed a sponsorship deal with Austrian water technology company BWT.

Team co-owner Vijay Mallya said in a statement on Tuesday that the deal, which will make the cars stand out at the Australian season-opener next week, was one of the most significant partnerships in Force India's 10-year history. No financial details were given.

"Changing the colour of our cars is an indication of the strength of this new partnership and a real statement of intent from BWT," added Mallya of the pink, magenta and silver colour scheme. Mexican driver Sergio Perez and French team mate Esteban Ocon will also feature pink on their helmets. Mercedes-powered Force India finished a best-ever fourth overall last season.