From backbenchers to midfield marauders

For a team that was in news for its lack of performance and financial troubles, Force India has done enough to make a mark on the track. Force India has come a long way, scoring 13 points, which may not look impressive on paper but is a big improvement for a team which failed to open its account in its debut season.

They looked a transformed team following the mid-season break and their critics were forced to eat humble pie and the doubters had to sit up and take notice. The season ended at the picturesque Yas Maria circuit in Abu Dhabi on Sunday and team principal Vijay Mallya declared that Force India was a success in 2009.

“We have learnt from the mistakes of last season. It has helped us  score points. We are now proud of our achievements. I would say we have exceeded our expectations this year as we have secured a podium, pole and fastest lap,” Mallya said.

But he added that the season could have been better if they had capitalised on the opportunities. “All the same we have had opportunities but we haven’t been able to make the most of — for example — at Interlagos, Suzuka and Monza. This slightly mutes the satisfaction, but it does give a lot of cause for optimism. If we can get into a similar position next year and follow through on all the chances we could be solid midfield in both championships.”

Force India’s success has been credited to them moving away from the Ferrari engine to the Mercedes-Benz unit. The five-year deal also includes supply of McLaren-Mercedes gearboxes and hydraulic systems. The coming on board of McLaren technical staff also helped Force India develop their cars better. The change in the power unit helped Force India after the mid-season break. They scored their first points after 29 races, thanks to Giancarlo Fisichella’s second-place finish at Spa. Fisichella moved to Ferrari.

Adrian Sutil continued with the team’s good run with a fourth place at Monza. He could have scored more if not for misfortunes at the Japanese and Brazilian races.
Sutil is looking ahead to the 2010 season. “At the moment the team is feeling confident. After Belgium, everyone in the sport really changed the way they think about Force India. We’re now midfield rather than back of the grid. It’s given the whole team a real boost and even though they worked at 110 per cent before they are at 150 per cent now. We are really competitive. Any further development can make a real difference to results.”

On the personal front Sutil added: “I’m just really pleased that I’ve got a car that is really working. I can show everyone what I can do finally.”