Sutil Pushes for Force India Decision Within Weeks
Adrian Sutil has called for clarity on his Force India future, insisting he cannot wait until December for the team's 2012 driver line-up announcement.
Adrian Sutil expects Force India to confirm its 2012 Formula One driver line-up within the next two to three weeks, as uncertainty grows over his position at the team. Sutil, who has raced for Force India since 2008, faces mounting speculation that he will be replaced by reserve driver Nico Hülkenberg for the coming season.
Force India had scheduled its official 2012 driver announcement for mid-December, but Sutil publicly stated he cannot wait that long to secure his future in Formula One. Speaking to F1’s official website, Sutil said he is pushing for a decision much sooner, citing the need to finalise his plans for next season. “The announcement can be done in December, but as a driver I need a decision before that as I want to secure my future in Formula One,” Sutil explained. “That is why I am trying to get a decision in the next two to three weeks, to make sure that I am also racing in Formula One in 2012.”
Team principal Vijay Mallya responded to Sutil’s comments, indicating he is prepared to provide an earlier answer if the driver insists. Mallya said, “If he wants an early decision I will give (it to) him.” This exchange comes amid persistent reports that Hülkenberg, who served as Force India’s test and reserve driver in 2011, has already been selected to step up to a race seat. No official confirmation has been made by the team regarding the final line-up.
Hülkenberg linked to Force India seat
Reports circulating in the paddock suggest Hülkenberg is the preferred choice to partner Paul di Resta for 2012. Hülkenberg previously raced for Williams in 2010 before joining Force India as reserve. Sutil’s future is further complicated by the limited number of available seats elsewhere on the grid, making a timely decision from Force India crucial for his prospects.
What a delayed decision means for Sutil
If Force India waits until December to confirm its drivers, Sutil risks missing out on alternative opportunities for 2012. With most teams finalising their line-ups by late autumn, drivers left without a seat at this stage often struggle to remain on the grid. Sutil’s insistence on an early answer reflects the competitive and time-sensitive nature of Formula One contract negotiations.
Force India’s final decision will determine not only Sutil’s future but also the shape of the driver market for 2012. As of late October 2011, the team had yet to confirm either Sutil or Hülkenberg for a race seat. The situation remains unresolved, with Sutil making it clear he cannot afford to wait until December for news of his fate.
