Mallya happy to see Force India skeptics 'eat their own words'

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Those who doubted Force India's ability to sustain its level of performance this season are left to "eat their own words" says team owner Vijay Mallya.

Despite its small budget, the Silverstone-based outfit continued to outperform its mid-field and richer rivals in 2017.

Stringent and efficient management coupled with the outstanding consistency of both Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon delivered to Force India another remarkable fourth-place finish in the F1 Constructor's standings.

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"We set out to achieve third but landed up with fourth for the second year running," Mallya said, speaking at Sunday evenings' Autosport Awards in London.

"I had many sceptics who I advise to eat their own words and I hope it tastes good.

"I'm very proud that with our limited resource we've been able to punch well above our weight.

"Thanks to Otmar [Szafnauer, chief operating officer] and his leadership, [technical director] Andy Green, [chief engineer] Tom [McCullogh], [sporting director] Andy Stevenson.

"I have a great team of racers, with racing in their blood and who know how to make the most of what we have. We never give up.

"The targets for 2018 will be set high again and we're ready for our competition."

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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.