As Mallya put it: “We (including Tata Motors) have proven that India has the capability of making forays competitively in global markets. Every Indian ought to cherish this moment, for it is a dream that has just been realised.”

The focus undoubtedly was on Renault exile Fisichella who from the outset had been the firm favourite to take the one remaining seat on this season’s grid following a test shootout in which the renamed team tried out seven experienced drivers.

In a glitzy ceremony, Fisichella, his partner young German star Sutil and Liuzzi—who split with Toro Rosso—were presented to the audience, walking out of a giant helmet.

For Fisichella, this will be his third separate stint with the Silverstone-based squad, having raced for it in its previous guise of Jordan. Said the Italian: “obviously it’s nice to be back again under the same roof as in 1997, 2002 and 2003.”

Fisichella said it was great to be back with familiar faces. “The most important thing is to see some of the same mechanics as in 1997, and the atmosphere is still fantastic. It’s really familiar. It was like coming back home—I felt comfortable straight away as soon as I went to the factory to fix the seat. “I’m happy about that and I’m sure we can achieve success.”

Despite Force India appearing to be his only option for 2008 following his departure from Renault, Fisichella says he did have other options. “I’ve picked the right one and I am looking forward to the new challenge.”

Liuzzi—who Mallya mentioned would be a major player in Force India’s quest of landing a podium spot in 2010—was confident his test driver role will allow him to progress his F1 career, despite losing out to Fisichella in the race to take the second race seat.

“I am very pleased to be able to help Force India in their testing and development programme this year,” Liuzzi said. “With increased resources there will be much more input and emphasis into the team’s testing, and the test driver’s role will be crucial to helping progress. I know I can play a big part in the team as it grows, which is a good opportunity.”

With most of the focus on Liuzzi—basically in view of the future and Fisichella—to earn the team the required results, it was Sutil who preferred to be in the background. Having had a promising season last year, Sutil—considered to be the fastest of the three drivers—explained: “The opportunity to stay with a growing team that has strong ambitions is the reason why I am on...it’s important for me at this stage of my career.”