As Formula 1 readies for the resumption of the season following the summer break, the Force India drivers are preparing to test the limits of the faster 2017 cars around one of the most spectacular circuits of the year, Spa-Francorchamps.

Home to some of the most famous corners in the world such as Eau Rouge and Blanchimont, the Belgian Grand Prix venue is steeped in history and prestige and could be set for the fastest ever laps to be set around its 4.3-mile layout.

The increased cornering performance of this year's machines even in low downforce configuration will likely see the uphill sweep of Eau Rouge and Raidillon once again become easily flat out but it will see the technical middle sector become even more thrilling and it is that drivers are most looking forward to.

“Belgium is one of the best circuits to experience an F1 car," Sergio Perez commented. "I love the high-speed layout, the history of the place and you get to meet some very passionate fans there. It’s just a great weekend and there is also the question mark over the weather. It nearly always rains at least one of the days.

“Pouhon is one of my favourite corners of the year. It’s so quick and satisfying when you get it just right. The 2017 cars will feel extra special through this part of the lap, as well as through Eau Rouge."

Teammate Esteban Ocon added: “Spa is where I made my debut last year. It’s a great track, but it’s not necessarily one of my favourites. There are some special corners, especially through sector two, which has a nice rhythm. It’s a circuit where you have to be totally at one with the car because you need to be really committed through the high-speed corners."

More broadly, Force India are entering the second half of the season looking to maintain their grip on fourth in the Constructors' Championship, which they currently hold by 60 points over Williams.  

Despite their strong results, there is still a feeling that more was possible in the first 11 races and optimising opportunities is a key goal for the team, particularly as they look to achieve one so far elusive goal.

“As we begin the second part of the season, I want to improve on what we have done so far. We have been competitive, but we also lost a few chances to score more points than we did," Perez claimed. "Hopefully, we will make up for those lost points in the races to come.

“Our consistency has been our strength this year," Force India owner Vijay Mallya continued. "We’ve scored points in 10 of the 11 races so far and had double points finishes in nine of those races. I’m proud of the team for this achievement and it shows that all our hard work is paying off. We’ve still got our sights on the podium for this year and if the opportunity arises I believe we are ready to take it.”