The Force India drivers are anticipating a continuation of their strong form so far in 2017 at the Hungarian Grand Prix, despite contrasting fortunes in their careers at the Hungaroring.
The Silverstone-based team remains one of the most consistent performers having secured an eighth double points finish of the season at Silverstone just over a week ago, a stat only bettered by Ferrari and Mercedes.
The only thing missing so far is a podium finish having had two by this stage this year and Esteban Ocon, who’s only failure to score a top 10 result came in Monaco, admits tasting champagne remains the main goal of his first full season in Formula 1.
“I have to say I’m very happy with how things have gone since I joined the team. I feel stronger with every race and I think there is even more potential in the second half of the year,” he said.
“My objective is still to try and get a podium, but the priority is to keep picking up the points in every race – that’s what we need as a team. We just need to keep being consistent.”
Though chances of achieving that this weekend appears slim without external factors, the Frenchman possesses a strong record at the Eastern European venue.
“I love Budapest and the Hungaroring. It’s my favourite track of the year,” the 20-year-old claimed, “I had a special weekend there when I was racing in Formula 3 with two wins and a second place, and a double podium in GP3.
“It’s just a track that’s very satisfying to drive. When you get into the rhythm it feels great because you can really lean on the car and attack the kerbs. It’s a circuit that suits me as a driver and my driving style.”
Traditionally the high downforce circuits were a weakness for Force India, who strived at circuits such as Spa and Monza, however, Sergio Perez believes the progress made in recent years means that is no longer the case.
“I think we can be quick in Budapest. We have been competitive on every type of track this year so there’s nothing to worry about in Hungary,” he said.
“I like the twisty layout of the track – which reminds me of a street circuit – and when you find your rhythm it’s very enjoyable to drive there. Overtaking isn’t easy so you’ve got to deliver in qualifying or you know it’s going to be a tough race on Sunday. Track position is so important.”
The Mexican’s problem is Hungary appears to be his bogey race with two of his last four retirements coming there in 2014 and 2015 and just a single points finish for McLaren in 2013.
“For whatever reason, the Hungaroring hasn’t been kind to me for the last few years so it’s time to put that right,” he said.
“You always want a good result before you break up because it’s a long wait until you get back in the car.”