Di Resta to remain at Force India
Sunday 10th July 2011
Paul di Resta appears certain to remain at Force India next season, according to team owner Vijay Mallya.
Mallya was left singing Di Resta's praises after watching the Scot produce a stunning qualifying display for Sunday's British Grand Prix.
In only his ninth race, and in a car that is very much middle of the grid, the 25-year-old will start sixth, just 0.032secs off Jenson Button with McLaren team-mate Lewis Hamilton down in 10th.
It was yet another drive that will catch the eye of many potential suitors, not least Mercedes for whom Michael Schumacher lines up a lowly 13th.
The seven-times champion, however, this week indicated he will see out the three-year contract he signed upon his comeback through to the end of next season.
That would appear to rule out Di Resta's hopes of jumping into the seat for 2012, and so increasing the likelihood of another season with Force India.
Asked whether he could hang onto Di Resta, Mallya told Press Association Sport: "I haven't put Paul in the car without having clear options going forward, and he is also very, very happy in this environment and in this team.
"I would be foolish to let go of a star, so we'll talk later in the year, but I feel the odds are more in favour of Paul remaining with Force India.
"When I first signed him up I told him we wanted a commitment which he was happy to give, and so I was happy to give him a break."
Mallya has confirmed Di Resta's contract is for "longer than this season", adding that "he is certainly worth every penny".
Assessing Di Resta's performance, Mallya added: "I've a lot of respect for Paul. He is an exceptionally talented driver and an outstanding human being.
"His talent was always acknowledged and respected in this team. The minute he sat in this year's car, he showed he was made of more than the right stuff.
"He is very comfortable in the car and has been pushing it to his limit all the time, so it's no surprise he has done so well here today.
"What makes it more special for him is that it is the first time he has driven on this track, his home circuit, and ours because the factory is just across the road.
"All in all, an excellent effort by Paul. He is doing a great job and he will go far, and he is showing that. Amazing."
Di Resta was understandably thrilled with his performance under the gaze of family and friends and a 100,000-plus crowd.
"I'm really happy with the result. To be here for my first British Grand Prix and to be starting in sixth feels great," said Di Resta.
"I would have settled for just being in Q3, but the fact we're on the third row of the grid is a result.
"The whole team did an excellent job and made sure we were out on track at the right times.
"Maybe there was a little bit of luck at the end of Q3 when the rain started again, but I think in the worst case scenario I would have ended up eighth.
"Hopefully we can carry the performance into tomorrow and come away with a strong result."
Credit: ESPN STAR (www.espnstar.com)
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