The Belgian Grand Prix was somewhat of a missed opportunity for Sahara Force India, picking up just five points at a favourable circuit and consequently falling behind McLaren in the Constructors’ Standings.
The damage would have been worse if not for McLaren driver Kevin Magnussen’s post-race penalty, that saw the McLaren driver pushed out of the points and Nico Hulkenberg elevated to 10th place.
With the long straights of Monza providing conditions that ought to be favourable to the VJM07, the team is expecting to make up ground with a strong double points finish in Italy.
Talking about how the car is expected to behave at Monza, Nico Hülkenberg said that the Mercedes power unit and a Monza-specific rear wing should give the VJM07 every chance to be competitive over the weekend.
“I expect us to be quite competitive there. It should be better for us than Spa,” said Hülkenberg.
“It’s all about power and top speed and we know the engine will be strong. We also have a new low downforce rear wing that we will use for Monza only.
“Braking from top speed for the chicanes with a skinny rear wing is always tricky,” concluded Hülkenberg.
Sergio Perez is also looking forward to the Italian Grand Prix, saying that as the site of one his best F1 races the track holds a special place for him.
“[Monza is] another favourite of mine,” said the Mexican driver.
“I think everybody enjoys going there because it’s such a beautiful location. I raced there a few times before Formula One and always had good results. I was on the podium two years ago [finishing second] – it was one of my best races in Formula One and a very special memory.”
When asked if he could repeat the performance, Perez said qualifying was the key to opening a podium opportunity.
“We will certainly try. I think it’s going to be a good track for us,” said Perez.
“It’s important to qualify in the top ten to have a chance of scoring good points. It’s difficult to overtake at Monza and if you are out of position it’s hard to recover.”
The fact that just three points separate the two teams sets up an interesting battle between Force India and McLaren for this weekend.
McLaren came out during the week saying that they are looking to keep climbing in the Constructors’ Standings, and Force India will be desperate to stop that from happening and reclaim fifth position.
Should the two teams be fighting directly for track position it will provide for fascinating viewing, but with a paper-thin margin and so much on the line it will mean that none of the drivers can afford to turn in anything other than a near-perfect performance.
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