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.”