Signature on Force India contract is mere formality: Sutil

BERLIN - German Force India driver Adrian Sutil said in an interview published Thursday that his signature was all that was needed on his contract extension with the Formula One team.

“We have reached an agreement. The signature is a mere formality, which will happen,” Sutil told the website of broadcasters Eurosport.

Several other drivers such as compatriot Nico Huelkenberg are hoping to secure the second place in the team alongside Sutil.

Force India are yet to officially name their 2011 drivers but it is widely believed that there will be no longer a place place there for Italian Vitantonio Liuzzi.

“The drivers who do not have a contract yet want to join the team because it is the best team with an open place,” he said.

The German finished 11th in the drivers’ standings this year and is happy to continue driving for the team, which placed seventh in the constructors’ standings.

“My manager first spoke to Force India and that is why I am happy to stay with them for another year.”

He did, however, say that it was his aim to drive for a top team at some stage if Force India don’t move closer to the top.

“But you have to see how things develop. Force India can also become one of the top teams if they continue along the path they are going. Then you do not have to move to another team to have success,” said Sutil.