Perez resumes points-scoring ways in Austria

40

After qualifying yesterday Sergio Perez said that Force India needed a double points finish and that's exactly what the team achieved on Sunday, with the Mexican finishing P7.

Force India's race weekend got off to a rocky start on Friday with both drivers struggling for speed in free practice, but qualifying delivered a substantial improvement and a good foundation for Sunday.

Perez's afternoon was spared any drama as he avoided the first lap commotion at Turn 1 and settled into a consistent and competitive race pace although it was far from clear sailing around the hills of Spielberg.

"Finishing seventh is a great result for the team and a nice reward considering how difficult this weekend has been for us," Said Perez.

"We struggled in practice, but come qualifying and the race we were quite strong and we came home with some good points.

"It wasn’t the easiest of races for me. I made a good start, but I lost places to both Esteban and Lewis [Hamilton] at turn one. Thankfully I was able to pass them both at Turn 3 and regain my starting position.

Rivals remain unconvinced over Bottas' dream start

Perez struggled with his Ultrasoft tyres in his first stint but the second half of the race saw the Mexican's Supersoft-shod car regain some consistency.

"I suffered from a lot of front graining in my first stint, but after the pit stop I was able to settle down into a rhythm, even though it wasn’t enough to attack Grosjean.

"We had very similar pace to him so we couldn’t get any closer. It has been a difficult weekend, but we recovered well and we can be happy with the outcome.

"Now our focus shifts to Silverstone. I really can’t wait to try these 2017 cars on the fastest track on the calendar."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.