Robert Fernley admitted his delight that his Sahara Force India F1 Team clinched fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship with another double points finish in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Valtteri Bottas’ early retirement from the race at the Yas Marina Circuit confirmed Force India’s position in the championship, and Deputy Team Principal Fernley praised every member of the outfit for their efforts in a hugely successful season.
“To end the season with two cars solidly inside the points and with fourth place in the constructors’ championship feels fantastic,” said Fernley.
“It has been a tremendous year for us and it’s important to pay tribute to each and every member of the team for all their hard work and hours of dedication back at base and at the track. All the effort has paid off and we can now celebrate the best ever year in our history.”
Fernley praised both Nico Hülkenberg and Sergio Perez for their performance during the race in Abu Dhabi, with the duo taking seventh and eighth. It was Hülkenberg’s final outing with the Silverstone-based team and Fernley thanked the German for everything he has done to help the team grow as an outfit.
“Both drivers did a super job today, as they have done all year long,” said Fernley. “It’s great that Nico could end his time with us on a high note and we thank him for everything he has done for us during his five years as a Force India driver. He’s been a big part of our journey up the grid and it has been a pleasure working with him.
“Credit to Sergio, as well, who becomes the first Force India driver to cross the 100 points in a season milestone. He’s been exceptional this year and fully deserves to finish seventh in the drivers’ championship.”
